POPE LEO XIV VOWS TO TACKLE CLERICAL ABUSE AFTER MEETING FRENCH SURVIVORS

Pope Leo XIV has reaffirmed his commitment to preventing sexual abuse in the Catholic Church after meeting seven survivors of abuse by French clergy in Lourdes.

Pope Leo XIV has pledged to work towards ensuring that sexual abuse suffered by victims in the Catholic Church is not repeated, following a private meeting with seven survivors in Lourdes, France.

The Pope met four men and three women on Sunday, September 27, during his visit to France. The two-hour meeting was held at the bishop’s residence in Lourdes, where he listened individually to the survivors and heard about their experiences, suffering and proposals for improving safeguarding within the Church. 

According to the Vatican, Leo thanked the survivors for sharing their painful experiences and reaffirmed his commitment to ensuring that the harm they endured does not happen to others. He also expressed solidarity with other people who continue to live with the effects of abuse. 

The meeting came as the Catholic Church in France continues to confront the long-term impact of clerical sexual abuse. A 2021 independent investigation estimated that about 330,000 minors were abused in the French Catholic Church and related institutions between 1950 and 2020. 

Earlier on Sunday, Leo urged French bishops to continue efforts aimed at preventing abuse and pursuing truth, justice and reparation for victims. 

The survivors have called for stronger and more consistent measures to protect children and hold the Church accountable. Their meeting with the Pope has brought renewed attention to the Church’s efforts to address the abuse crisis and rebuild trust with victims.