The Diocese of Stockton (California) recognized the importance of preventing child abuse by asking for prayers for those affected by the problem.

“April is designated as National Child Abuse Prevention Month,” the diocese posted on Facebook. "Throughout the year, but especially in the month of April, all are asked to increase awareness, to educate ourselves and our community and to seek healing for those who have been impacted by abuse.” 

It also provided a link parishioners could follow if they want more information.

The Children's Bureau says the designation serves to provide an opportunity to spread awareness about child abuse and highlight the importance of community collaboration in identifying and preventing abuse. 

The U.S. Conference of Catholic Bishops' (USCCB) Protection of Children & Young People Committee is working to educate people about the dangers of abuse. It does this by auditing its dioceses, providing resources for parishes, and supporting the National Review Board and Committee on the Protection of Children and Young People. 

Pope Francis discussed the issue during the “Promoting child safeguarding in the time of COVID-19 and beyond” conference in Rome in November, the Vatican said. 

The pope lamented the fact that sometimes Catholic adults have failed to protect children in their care, the Vatican said. He described the "pain and shame of not having always been good guardians, protecting the minors entrusted to us." 

The pope emphasized that Catholics need to prioritize eradication of abuse in all forms. He closed his message by saying, "May they be promoters and custodians of a renewed educational alliance between the generations and between the different contexts in which minors grow up, capable of stimulating between them a generative and protective connection, especially in this complex time of the pandemic.”