Safeguarding Sunday 2026

Safeguarding Sunday takes place this year on 15 November. This year’s theme is ‘Love Protects’ – rooted in the powerful words of 1 Corinthians 13, reminding us that safeguarding isn’t just about policy or compliance, but a natural expression of Christian love in action.

Safeguarding Sunday is an opportunity for churches to reflect on how we create communities where everyone is welcomed, valued and kept safe. It is a time to give thanks for those who work diligently behind the scenes to ensure that our churches are places of care, accountability and trust, and to renew our commitment to the wellbeing of all.

At its heart, safeguarding is about people. It is about recognising the inherent dignity of every person, created in the image of God, and ensuring that children, young people and adults who may be vulnerable are protected from harm. It is also about listening carefully, responding appropriately to concerns, and creating environments where people feel able to speak and know they will be heard.

Throughout the Gospels, we see Jesus paying particular attention to those who were vulnerable, overlooked or in need of protection. He welcomed children, showed compassion to those on the margins, and challenged attitudes and behaviours that diminished others. His example reminds us that safeguarding is not simply a matter of policies and procedures; it is an expression of Christian love and discipleship.

A prayer for Safeguarding Sunday

God of love, who loved us first,
and who in Jesus, showed us how to love others,
forgive us for the times we’ve looked away,
or stayed silent when we should have spoken up.
Teach us to love as you love.

God of compassion, who sees the overlooked,
and draws near the hurting and exploited,
help us to see with your eyes, listen with your ears,
and give us courage to stand with those who are not heard.
Teach us to love as you love.

God of truth, who shines light into darkness
who reveals what is hidden and unspoken,
free us from our shame, our denial, and fear,
lead us in the way of honesty, openness and healing.
Teach us to love as you love.

God of protection, our place of safety and refuge,
may your Church be a place where:
power is used to serve,
people find belonging,
and love is made real in what we say and do.
Teach us to love as you love,
with love that protects, always.

Amen.