Children are precious gifts—in whom the Lord lives and dwells. They smile, they dream, they teach us how to love with open hearts and childlike trust.

But not every child knows safety. Abuse leaves scars that can last a lifetime—wounds that silence joy and steal hope.

April is Child Abuse Prevention Month—an opportunity to renew our sacred commitment to protecting the most vulnerable among us from every form of abuse.

The Catholic Diocese of Arlington stands united with leaders across our communities to say: every child deserves safety, love, and support. Their lives are sacred and protecting them is our common mission.

Let us come together—in prayer and in action—for the safety of all God's children.

Because when we love and protect children, we serve their Creator.