From November 11 to 15, 2024, Catholic Care for Children International (CCCI) held its second leaders’ meeting in Rome under the theme “Journeying Together to Transform Care for Children: Unfolding New Pathways of Being and Doing.” Hosted at Casa Maria Immacolata in Rome by Sr. Niluka Perera, CCCI Coordinator, the gathering brought together 18 Catholic sisters and colleagues from Uganda, Kenya, Zambia, Malawi, and Sri Lanka.
The participants, representing religious institutes and national associations caring for thousands of children, shared their journeys, challenges, and successes in transitioning from institutional to family-based care. Building on the first CCCI gathering in Rome (2022) and the Regional Convening in Nairobi (2023), the meeting reaffirmed the shared vision: a family for every child.
Highlights of the Meeting
Sharing Experiences
Participants reflected on their work over the past two years, highlighting achievements, challenges, and standout moments. After each country’s presentation, moments of silence invited deeper reflection. Participants were encouraged to ponder: “What is stirring within me as I listen?” These reflections paved the way for mutual support and collaboration.
Audience with Pope Francis
A highlight of the gathering was attending an audience with Pope Francis at St. Peter’s Square, a moment of inspiration and spiritual renewal for the leaders.
Expert Insights and Presentations
The meeting featured valuable contributions from key speakers:
Sr. Roxanne Schares, Associate Executive Secretary of UISG, highlighted the role of UISG in supporting the CCCI movement, emphasizing that CCCI operates as a UISG project.
Sr. Patricia Murray, Executive Secretary of UISG, shared insights on synodality, stressing its connection to the CCC movement and the importance of walking together in mission.
Sr. Pasilisa Namikoye, Secretary General of the Association of Sisterhoods of Kenya (AOSK), spoke about the critical role of religious conferences in supporting Catholic Care for Children and fostering collaboration among congregations.
Dr. Anthony Ssembatya (IACD, Pontifical Gregorian University) provided updates on safeguarding guidelines designed to aid the transition of children from institutional to family-based care.
Ms. Yende Anderson (GHR Foundation) discussed the foundation’s future priorities, encouraging CCCs to focus on sustainability and diversify their funding sources.
Fr. Lord M. Winner, CMF, General Mission Procurator, introduced five dimensions of sustainability: clarity of mission, financial stability, leadership, collaboration, and capacity building.
Strategic Planning and Collaboration
The final day was dedicated to charting the path forward. Sr. Niluka Perera the coordinator together with Nicole Moran, consultant presented the CCCI Strategic Plan 2024-2030.
Country delegations shared plans for the next two years, with participants offering feedback and collective wisdom to refine strategies.
Strength for the Future
The meeting provided a powerful platform for reflection, sharing, and inspiration. Leaders were encouraged to explore innovative solutions for sustaining their work, fostering collaboration, and envisioning new ways to serve children and families.
With hope, trust, and unity, the journey toward family-based care continues, guided by the shared belief that every child deserves a loving family.
