Interviewed by Liam Michael Quinn, Congregational Communications Manager

LMQ. What impact has your work as Congregational Safeguarding Advisor had in Safeguarding as expressed throughout the Congregation?

Although I began my current position in July 2021, I have been involved in safeguarding with the Province of Ireland since 2017.

Throughout this work in Good Shepherd safeguarding, I believe I’ve contributed to fostering a deeper understanding of safeguarding’s significance across the Congregation, from the global to the local level. Through building trust with leadership and safeguarding personnel across all levels, I’ve observed a growing openness to address reports of allegations and concerns.

Specifically, at the Congregation level, I have been mentoring and supporting the safeguarding coordinator and facilitators; together with the Congregational Safeguarding Team, my focus has been on reviewing and implementing the safeguarding policy throughout the Congregation.

While safeguarding remains an ongoing journey, I hope that I’ve helped build the foundations and implement the structures for a culture of safety and care that will endure and evolve.

How have you been transformed by your work in the global Good Shepherd mission?
Before beginning this role in Rome, I felt fairly familiar with the work of the mission, given that I had been working in safeguarding for the Province of Ireland beforehand.

However, it was only when I began this role in Rome that I really came to appreciate the extraordinary scope of the work of the Good Shepherd global mission, carried out by both sisters and partners-in-mission in 68 countries around the world.

Experiencing this work firsthand, particularly in the Global South, has been both humbling and transformative for me. I’ve encountered incredible individuals whose dedication, compassion, and kindness shine through, even in the most challenging circumstances.

And I feel honored to have been able to support them in whatever small way I could. These people and these encounters have changed me – at a very deep level and in ways that words can simply not describe.

What outcome are you most proud of from the work of these years?

I am particularly proud of the growth and confidence I’ve witnessed within the safeguarding team members located across the five continents. Over the past three years, their role as coordinators and facilitators has significantly strengthened, and I deeply admire their unwavering dedication.

Additionally, I’ve seen a remarkable shift in understanding among unit leadership and safeguarding personnel. Safeguarding is no longer viewed as merely a legal or Congregational requirement imposed by leadership teams; it is embraced as a moral responsibility that is closely aligned with the mission and values of our founders Sr. Mary Euphrasia and St. John Eudes –

How will the mission and values guide you as you journey ahead?

As I transition into a new season of my life, I plan to reduce my active involvement in safeguarding. Nevertheless, I remain deeply committed to the Good Shepherd values of compassion, justice, and care. The exemplary safeguarding practices I’ve encountered during my time here will continue to inspire and inform my work.

 Any final words…?

I want to extend my heartfelt gratitude to everyone I have worked with over these years. Your unwavering support and dedication have been instrumental in our collective progress. In particular, I send special thanks to Safeguarding Coordinator Sr. Jane Nway, and Safeguarding Facilitators Samar Abou Assaly, Sr. Carolina Madariaga Marmolejo, Arlene Manoharan, and Bernardino Culombola, as well as the members of the Congregational Safeguarding Committee, and both the former and current members of the Congregational Leadership Team.

It has been a privilege to collaborate with such steadfast and visionary individuals who work tirelessly to uphold the mission and ensure that everyone we serve and live alongside in our global Good Shepherd family is protected and respected!