Abused Children Prepare Annual Awareness Days

ROME, MARCH 14, 2011 (Zenit.org).- A protection agency that has been instrumental in the battle against pedophilia and child pornography is preparing the annual events designed to raise awareness of this crime. The Italy-based Meter Association, founded by Father Fortunato Di Noto, will sponsor the week-long initiative, as it has since 1995, from April 25 to May 1.

The week for Children Victims of Violence, Abuse and Indifference has become a growing event in Italy and abroad, particularly since 2002.

It seeks not only to build awareness about the problem of pedophilia but also to help in healing.

The theme this year is "We Have Found Life Again!"

There are two main parts to the week: a commemorative portion with prayer and reflection, and a portion dedicated to children and families through activities and meetings for reflection and information.

A statement from the Meter Association explained, "[T]he cross and suffering are not the end of all hope but, in faith, they represent the source of life and of resurrection."

The association recalled Benedict XVI's message to those marking the week in 2010, as well as a message from the president of Italy.

"There is a universe of suffering that millions of children fall into," the Meter Association acknowledged, "but there is also a universe of redeemed, accepted and healed suffering where the power of the Love of God, through a humanity not resigned to evil, undertakes 'Samaritan' ways 'to heal and find life again.'"

On Wednesday, Father Di Noto will join with the director of the Vatican press office, Jesuit Father Federico Lombardi, to present the Meter Association's annual report on pedophilia and child pornography.