The Diocese of Chester is supporting Safeguarding Sunday and is urging churches in the diocese to use a regular Sunday service between 10 October and 03 November to highlight the importance of safeguarding.
The Bishop of Birkenhead, Julie Conalty, says: “Safeguarding is at the heart of our Christian faith, and is something for which we are all responsible. Between Safeguarding Sunday on 10 October and the day that has been designated All Survivors’ Day, 03 November, I urge churches in the Diocese of Chester to consider how they can highlight the importance of safeguarding.
"We need to talk more about safeguarding, to face up to our past failures and to learn. It is also right that we give thanks for the courage of survivors who speak out and for those volunteers and professionals who work to bring about change and to make our churches safer. Taking safeguarding seriously shows that we truly see each other as children of God."
Safeguarding Sunday is an ecumenical initiative from specialist Christian safeguarding charity, thirtyone:eight which has produced bespoke church resources, including films, animations, prayers, preaching notes, children's activities, hymns and songs.
A short video sermon for use on the day has been provided by Bishop Jonathan Gibbs, the Church of England’s lead safeguarding bishop who spoke about Safeguarding Sunday in his General Synod presentation in July.
Bishop Julie formally began her role as Bishop of Birkenhead in September. She comes to the Diocese of Chester with a wealth of safeguarding expertise and experience.
Victims and survivors of church-related abuse welcomed the news of her appointment describing her as someone who recognises "that corruption in the Church needs to be faced.”
Safeguarding in the Diocese of Chester
Diocese of Chester takes its responsibilities for safeguarding very seriously. Should you wish to speak to someone about a safeguarding matter, or if you have any concerns or issues to discuss, contact the Diocesan Safegaurding Adviser, Pauline Butterfield.
E: pauline.butterfield@chester.anglican.org
T: 01928 718834 x 221 or 07703 800031