As we commence the 2019-2020 academic year, I would like to share that I have recently been released from the position as the Gregorian’s Vice Rector and as the head of the Institute of Psychology in order to give my full focus to the Centre of Child Protection’s endeavors.

Through discernment with the CCP team, this year we will give studied focus to research, networking, and the quality of our online learning program. In future, the CCP will be continuing its mission of educating on safeguarding through a blended learning course, as well as its residential Diploma and Licentiate courses. With safeguarding courses lacking in many areas of the world and the double abuse crises growing - the abuse and its cover-up - seemingly daily, it is only fair that we put all energy and passion into this mission.

In support of our growing network of partner organizations, I will be continuing my commitment to speak at safeguarding workshops and seminars throughout the world. These past months, I traveled to Australia, Zimbabwe, Zambia, and South Africa, just to name a few, and met with bishops, formators, seminarians, women religious, and fellow safeguarders to discuss our efforts to make the Church a safer place for all.

Leading into the new academic year, there have already been meetings in Germany with formators and seminarians and in Rome with religious brothers and with male and female superior generals. This month, I look forward to the conferences that will be held at The University of Cambridge’s Von Hügel Institute and the Universidade Católica Portuguesa in Braga. There is much work to be done, and I am happy to do my part in making our Church a safer place. Again, thank you all so much for your support in this important moment for our mission in the Gregorian University, the University of the Nations. I look forward to seeing you in the halls and to working together in the commitment to safeguarding.

 

Fr. Hans Zollner, SJ