Pope Francis has convened the Presidents of all the Episcopal Conferences of the whole world for a meeting in Rome to discuss the prevention of abuse of minors and vulnerable adults. The announcement was made by the Vice-director of the Holy See Press Office, Paloma García Ovejero, at a press briefing on the meeting of the Council of Cardinal Advisers, which concluded on September 12 morning.

A communiqué by from the Council of Cardinals gave further details. The meeting with the Pope will take place in the Vatican from 21-24 February 2019. The Cardinals’ statement noted that reunion, the Council had “reflected fully together with the Holy Father on the issue of abuse.”

On Wednesday 12th press briefing was dedicated to a review of meeting of the Council of Cardinal Advisors. Ovejero noted that all the members of the Council were present, with the exception of Cardinal George Pell, Cardinal Francisco Javier Errázuriz, and Cardinal Laurent Monsengwo Pasinya. Pope Francis participated fully in the work of the Cardinals, although he was absent at certain points on account of other official duties.

According to the Vicedirector, “A large part of the work of the Council was dedicated to the final adjustments to the draft of the new Apostolic Constitution on the Roman Curia, which has for a provisional title Praedicate evangelium.” A copy of the provisional text has been delivered to the Holy Father, with the expectation that the document will be reviewed in terms of canon law, and subject to further revision.

During the meetings of the Council, Cardinal Seán Patrick O’Malley, O.F.M. Cap., updated those present on the work of the Pontifical Commission for the Protection of Minors.