Fr. Jacob Mavunkal, Executive Director, JPD Commission, KCBC
Our efforts have been focused on promoting social initiatives, particularly in fostering a safe environment through net-zero and carbon neutrality initiatives, safeguarding the dignity and rights of all individuals, especially children and vulnerable adults. Additionally, we have supported rural livelihoods and agricultural production initiatives while addressing critical issues such as threats to coastal zones, wildlife intrusions, buffer zone and forest expansions. Furthermore, we have been actively combating the drug menace in collaboration with our diocesan partners, Caritas India, and different Commissions of the KCBC.
As we reflect on the past year and look ahead to the future, I am reminded of the words from the book of Proverbs: “The name of the Lord is a fortified tower; the righteous run to it and are safe” (Proverbs 18:10). Our mission at the JPD Commission, KCBC, is rooted in this divine assurance of safety and protection. It is our sacred duty to ensure that our church’s social work initiatives embody this commitment to safeguard the dignity and rights of all individuals, particularly children and vulnerable adults. The Caritas India support program, “SAFE Propagation and Security for Diocesan Social Service Stakeholders and Networking and Mainstreaming of KSPs among DSSS Partners through Collective Initiatives,” aims to develop a globally recognized safeguarding policy and a unified Diocesan Strategic Plan for each Diocesan Social Service Society. This seeks to ensure the safety and security of stakeholders and to enhance the integration and coordination among DSSS partners through collective efforts.
The call to protect the vulnerable is deeply embedded in our faith. Jesus Himself emphasized this, “Let the little children come to me, and do not hinder them, for the kingdom of heaven belongs to such as these” Matthew 19:14. We must follow Christ’s model in our work and establish spaces that give the weak a sense of security, worth, and respect. This duty encompasses every aspect of our ministry, from our regular exchanges to the rules and regulations that direct our behavior. We have made great progress in developing and fortifying our safeguarding policies in the last one year. These measures are not merely bureaucratic requirements; they are expressions of our love and care for those whom God has entrusted to us. Safeguarding is about creating a culture where abuse and harm are not tolerated, and where every individual feels secure and supported. It is about ensuring that our programs and staff uphold the highest standards of conduct and protection.
As we look to the future, our commitment to safeguarding must begin at the grassroots level. This involves not only implementing policies but also fostering a culture of vigilance and care within our communities. Every member of our society has a role to play in this effort. It is through collective action and shared responsibility that we can create an environment where everyone, especially the most vulnerable, can thrive. We must remember that safeguarding is an ongoing process. It requires continuous reflection, evaluation, and improvement. Our policies must evolve to address new challenges and incorporate best practices. We must remain steadfast in our resolve to protect those in our care, guided by the wisdom of scripture and the teachings of our Lord.
I extend my profound gratitude to the Chairman Bishops, to all DSSSs fraternity and to my team for their unwavering dedication and exemplary efforts in the social apostolate.
