(Cairo, EGYPT) Fr. Gottfried Ugolini, a graduate of the '16 diploma course, presented a training session on "Safeguarding – A Pastoral Priority" at the recent joint meeting of all Coptic-catholic and Coptic-orthodox priests, together with members of religious institutes. It took place in the seminary in Cairo on the 25th of February 2020.

This meeting serves as a launch point for further formation programs planned by the organizing team responsible for ongoing formation. The participants demonstrated interest and willingness to cope with this topic which is still a strong taboo in the Churches and in the reality of Egypt.

Safeguarding is a normal part of pastoral care. Listening to the often silenced and unheard cry of those who are suffering is a central mark of the pastoral care. It is the way of God who hears the cry of the poor, orphans and widows in order to intervene because he stands on their side. The safeguarding of minors and prevention from all forms of abuse and violence is central in the message of the Gospel and of the Christian mission.