The Diocese of Kengtung held a Priestly Ongoing Formation on August 12, 2026, at the Meeting Room of the Diocesan Pastoral Center. The formation was attended by Bishop John Saw Yaw Han and 37 diocesan priests.

The principal focus of the gathering was the Child and Vulnerable Adults Safeguarding Policy, with particular attention to its adoption and practical implementation within the Diocese and at parish level.

Morning Session: Policy Presentation

During the morning session, Bishop John Saw Yaw Han presented the Child and Vulnerable Adults Safeguarding Policy. The presentation highlighted the responsibility of the Church to create a safe environment in which children and vulnerable adults are protected from abuse, exploitation, neglect, and all forms of harm.

Following the presentation, the priests discussed the proposed policy and its application within the Diocese of Kengtung. Particular attention was given to the responsibilities of clergy, religious, catechists, parish workers, and other pastoral personnel in promoting a culture of safeguarding.

Afternoon Session: Approval and Implementation

In the afternoon session, the participants continued their discussion on the practical implementation of the policy. After further consideration, the Child and Vulnerable Adults Safeguarding Policy was approved for adoption by the Diocese of Kengtung.

The meeting also approved the establishment of the Safeguarding Committee and its members to assist the Diocese in promoting and implementing the policy.

The priests then discussed the essential safeguarding activities to be carried out at parish level. These included:

• Raising awareness among parish communities
• Providing safeguarding formation and education
• Establishing appropriate reporting and response procedures
• Ensuring responsible pastoral practices
• Creating safe environments for children and vulnerable adults

Challenges and Commitment

The participants openly discussed the challenges and difficulties that may arise in implementing the policy in parishes. These included the need for adequate formation and awareness, availability of trained personnel, differences in parish circumstances, limited resources, communication difficulties, and the importance of developing a consistent safeguarding culture throughout the Diocese.

The Priestly Ongoing Formation provided an important opportunity for the diocesan priests to deepen their understanding of the Church’s responsibility to protect children and vulnerable adults. The approval of the Safeguarding Policy and the establishment of the Safeguarding Committee marked an important step toward strengthening safeguarding structures and practices in the Diocese of Kengtung.

A Pastoral Priority

The participants recognized that safeguarding is not merely a policy or administrative requirement, but an essential part of the Church’s pastoral mission and her commitment to the dignity, safety, and well-being of every person, especially children and vulnerable adults.

The meeting concluded with a renewed commitment among the Bishop and diocesan priests to work together for the effective implementation of the Safeguarding Policy in every parish and pastoral setting of the Diocese.

The adoption of the policy represents a significant milestone for the Diocese of Kengtung. It signals a clear commitment to protecting the most vulnerable members of the Church community and ensuring that all pastoral settings are safe and welcoming for everyone.

By RVA Akha Service