Pope Appoints New President for the Pontifical Commission for the Protection of Minors

Vatican City – July 7 2025

Pope Leo XIV has appointed French Archbishop Thibault Verny as the new President of the Pontifical Commission for the Protection of Minors, succeeding Cardinal Seán Patrick O’Malley, who recently retired after reaching the age of 80. The appointment signals the Vatican’s continued commitment to safeguarding and accountability in the global Church, with implications for local Churches—including Papua New Guinea and the Solomon Islands—as they strengthen their mechanisms for child protection.

Archbishop Verny greeting His Holiness Pope Leo XlV...PC: Vatican Dicastery for Communication.

Archbishop Verny currently serves as Archbishop of Chambéry and Bishop of Maurienne and Tarentaise in France. He brings extensive experience to the role, having led efforts to address abuse within the French Episcopal Conference. Until June 2025, he chaired France’s Council for the Prevention and Fight against Paedophilia, working directly with survivors, civil authorities, and Church leaders.

For the Church in Papua New Guinea and the Solomon Islands, Archbishop Verny’s appointment highlights the importance of forming local structures and pastoral care for the protection of minors. His leadership aligns with the goals of the CBC Commission for the Protection of Minors and Vulnerable Adults, recently reinforced in diocesan workshops and formation programs throughout the region.

In his remarks to Vatican Media, Archbishop Verny shared three words that reflect his vision for the mission: humility, gratitude, and determination. “Humility before the seriousness of the task,” he said, “gratitude to Pope Leo XIV for his trust, and determination to carry on and deepen the work of Cardinal O’Malley.”

Archbishop Verny has been closely associated with the landmark CIASE Report (Independent Commission on Sexual Abuse in the Church), which thoroughly investigated abuse within the Church in France, and supported the establishment of INIRR—an institution dedicated to reparation and compensation for victims.

His appointment sends a strong message of continuity and renewal. “I am committed to building a culture of protection and accountability in every part of the world, especially where the Church is growing rapidly,” he stated.

As the Catholic Church in Papua New Guinea and Solomon Islands continues to promote a safe and just environment for all its faithful—especially children and vulnerable adults—this appointment is both a global sign of hope and a local call to action.