April is Child Abuse Prevention Month

According to childhelp.org, each day between four and seven children tragically lose their lives to child abuse in the U.S., and a report of child abuse is made every 10 seconds. This includes instances of abuse, neglect, and child trafficking in every city across America.

Since 1983, the U.S. Department of Health and Human Services has dedicated April as Child Abuse Prevention Month, when communities should rededicate themselves to being supportive of families, and play an active role in preventing child abuse and neglect as well as taking positive action to promote child and family well being.

On Friday, April 13, the USCCB will promote a Call to Prayer. Dioceses and parishes can consider promoting that day for prayer and sacrifice for this intention: “We pray that God may grant those affected by abuse in any way the courage to tell their story and seek healing.”

There are also available op-eds and other resources that dioceses and parishes can use to promote Child Abuse Prevention Month including sample social media posts, bulletin inserts, and Prayers for the Faithful.

The USCCB will be hosting rosaries and prayers dedicated to stopping child abuse. On Friday, April 6th at 11 am Pacific Time, the staff of the USCCB will gather to pray a Rosary to Our Lady with special intentions for victims/survivors of abuse and the defense of the vulnerable. The Rosary will be streamed live on the USCCB Facebook and Twitter pages to encourage public participation. 

Click here to learn the signs of child abuse and what to do if you suspect abuse is taking place.

Your participation is vital in this month-long campaign. Every child is worth the effort.

 

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