Catholic Sisters in the Legal Profession called to Prophetic Witness

Vatican City, August 5, 2026: Around 200 participants, including canon lawyers, civil lawyers, major superiors, safeguarding professionals, researchers and Church leaders, gathered in Nairobi, Kenya, for the first Catholic Sisters in the Legal Profession Network Conference. Held under the theme, "Prophetic Witness, Safeguarding as an Expression of the Gospel," the conference focused on strengthening safeguarding, justice and accountability in religious life.

The gathering offered participants a space to reflect on the prophetic responsibility of legal professionals in advancing safeguarding, justice and accountability within religious life.

Prophetic witness

In her keynote address, Sr. Jane Wakahiu, LSOSF, Associate Vice President of Programme Operations and Head of Catholic Sisters at the Conrad N. Hilton Foundation, welcomed the participants and thanked those who organised the conference. She described the gathering as a sign of hope and a shared commitment to strengthening religious life in Africa through dialogue, collaboration and service.

Speaking on the conference theme, "Prophetic Witness: Safeguarding as an Expression of the Gospel," Sr. Wakahiu said prophetic witness is grounded in living the Gospel faithfully. It involves standing in solidarity with those who suffer, speaking the truth with love, and confronting injustice through God's mercy, compassion and justice.

Upholding the dignity of all

In her address, Sr. Wakahiu stressed that safeguarding is not merely an administrative requirement or legal obligation but a Gospel imperative rooted in Christ's command to love one's neighbour.

She also urged religious institutes and ecclesial communities to reflect on assumptions and practices that undermine the dignity of women, children and vulnerable adults. Referring to the Pontifical Commission for the Protection of Minors' 2024 report, she pointed to safeguarding challenges in many African contexts, including weak national guidelines, limited survivor accompaniment, a shortage of safeguarding professionals, inadequate resources, and gaps in accountability.

Sr. Wakahiu said the conference offered an opportunity to strengthen safeguarding awareness, improve safeguarding procedures, and provide more effective accompaniment for survivors within Church communities.

Courtesy: Vatican News