About

A collaborative learning lab for a shared mission

From 9 to 11 December 2026, in Rome, the Pontifical Commission for the Protection of Minors will promote the II Annual Encounter on Abuse Prevention in Consecrated Life. Taking part will be bishops, Conferences and Unions of Major Superiors, Institutes of Consecrated Life and Societies of Apostolic Life, Dicasteries of the Roman Curia and the Secretariat of State, safeguarding professionals, and other ecclesial actors involved in prevention.

Designed as a practical workshop focused on tangible outcomes, the Encounter will explore lessons learned from experience and data, highlight effective safeguarding practices, and develop actionable recommendations to strengthen a culture of protection, accountability, and justice across the Church. Together, participants will contribute to shaping mutual relationships that foster safer communities and support a shared mission of care and human dignity.

Purpose and method

The II Annual Encounter on the Prevention of Abuse in Consecrated Life is a synodal learning lab focused on results. It draws on the Commission’s Third Annual Report on Church Policies and Procedures for Safeguarding (reporting year 2025).

Building on last year’s workshop, this edition deepens the dialogue between institutes of consecrated life, societies of apostolic life, conferences and unions of major superiors, bishops and the Dicasteries of the Roman Curia. Their shared aim is to strengthen mutual relations as a constitutive dimension of safeguarding.

Each day combines short framing talks with extended work in round tables, working groups and plenary feedback. The Learning Labs are designed and led jointly by officials of the participating Dicasteries. Round tables are facilitated by bishops, major superiors and safeguarding practitioners appointed by the Commission.

The Encounter also opens the synodal listening process towards the Fourth Annual Report, expected in October 2027.

Objectives

1. Identify the key lessons of the Commission’s Annual Reports for consecrated life, for bishops and for the whole Church.
2. Share good practice across different contexts and traditions, including contemplative life and the Eastern Churches.
3. Clarify responsibilities and competences among institutes, dioceses, episcopal and religious conferences, and the Roman Curia.
4. Develop concrete recommendations that can be implemented locally, for a culture of safeguarding and justice.
5. Open the synodal process towards the Fourth Annual Report (October 2027).

Who takes part

• Institutes of consecrated life and societies of apostolic life
• Conferences and unions of major superiors
• Bishops, especially those responsible for consecrated life in their dioceses (episcopal vicars and delegates for consecrated life)
• Dicasteries of the Roman Curia and the Secretariat of State
• Safeguarding professionals and Church actors committed to prevention