As we mark April as National Child Abuse Prevention Month, I ask all people of good will to join me through prayer and community engagement to assist in protecting the precious gift of life and all our children. Annually, nearly 700,000 children are neglected or abused in the United States and the number has increased each year since 2010. In Virginia alone, there are more than 6,000 abuse cases every year. The Church and the community must work to do everything possible to end this tragedy. Together, may we create and sustain safe environments and remain committed to report suspected neglect or abuse.
On Divine Mercy Sunday (April 8) and always, all are invited to pray in a special way for abused children and for those entrusted with their care. May we be united as we continue to protect and safeguard all of God’s children from any form of neglect or abuse.
For more resources go to usccb.org/issues-and-action/child-and-youth-protection/child-abuse-prevention-month.cfm.
