Safeguarding course was presented to the clergy of the Ukrainian Greek Catholic Church diaspora

The “SAFEGUARDING. Child’s safety in the church environment” course, offered by the UCU Child Dignity Centre of the Child, was presented to pastors serving Ukrainians in the diaspora. The online presentation took place in collaboration with the Pastoral and Migration Department of the Patriarchal Curia of the Ukrainian Greek Catholic Church.

Ivanka Rudakevych, Ivanka Rudakevych, head of the “Church” division at the UCU Child Dignity Centre, familiarized diaspora priests with key tools for creating a safe space for children and vulnerable individuals in parishes and church communities worldwide.

“With the outbreak of full-scale war, the number of Ukrainians abroad has increased significantly, and accordingly, diaspora parishes have grown. Even in a safe environment, people remain vulnerable. It is important for our pastors to understand how they can be helpful and what they can do if unacceptable incidents occur and there is a need for a sensitive response to violence,” notes Ivanka Rudakevych.

She adds that in every country, there are already resources developed by local organizations regarding the prevention of violence.

“Of course, not all of these materials have been translated into Ukrainian. That’s why our course is a wonderful opportunity to learn more about this complex topic in your native language and to connect with our UCU Center for the Dignity of the Child, which can provide support during difficult times,” emphasizes Ivanka Rudakevych.