Vos Estis Lux Mundi (VELM) VELM is a decree issued by Pope Francis in May 2019. It was initially implemented on an experimental basis for a three-year period prior to becoming fully operational in Canon Law in April 2023. 

Its purpose is to require allegations of sexual abuse occurring from 1 June 2019 against minors and vulnerable adults committed by: clerics, members of institutes of consecrated life (priests, sisters and brothers), members of societies of apostolic life (lay and ordained), as well as Bishops and other leaders, to be reported to the authorities and to be dealt with according to due process in order to ensure justice for the victims and safeguarding of the common good.

VELM is an indication of the seriousness with which Pope Francis is seeking to bring about change to the management of allegations of abuse, to provide care for complainants of abuse, and to ensure accountability on the part of Church leaders.

For more information regarding VELM, please contact the Integrity and Professional Standards Team on 08 8210 8150.

The full text of VELM can be found here.