Pope decries 'scourge' of sexual abuse during France visit

During his four-day visit to France, Pope Leo addressed the issue of sexual abuse during a Mass celebrated at the Lourdes shrine. The shrine, a place of healing for Catholics, has been visited by many sexual abuse victims seeking recovery from their trauma. In his speech, Pope Leo emphasized respect for life, including the sick and frail, and criticized euthanasia and abortion.

He urged humility among the clergy and called for the admission of mistakes to facilitate spiritual growth and healing of deep wounds within the Church. However, some survivors expressed skepticism that the Pope's visit would lead to swift changes within the Church, stating that things are moving slowly. Earlier in the day, the Pope met with French bishops, praising their courageous response to the abuse scandal and their commitment to prevention and protection against such crimes.

The Pope emphasized the need to maintain vigilance and continue along the path of addressing the painful scourge of abuse committed against minors by members of the clergy or in an ecclesial context.