Pope Leo pledges action on clergy abuse after meeting survivors

Pope Leo pledged to take action against clergy abuse after a meeting with seven French abuse survivors, according to a Vatican statement. During a two-hour meeting in France, the pontiff thanked the victims for their painful testimony and vowed to prevent similar harm from happening again. The pope, who is on a four-day visit to France, also addressed the issue during a Mass in Lourdes, a town known for its shrine to the Virgin Mary and healing spring waters.

Earlier, the pontiff called for the Church to face its past and admitted its "deep wounds." Despite the pope's efforts, some survivors remain skeptical that the meeting will lead to immediate changes, emphasizing that progress is slow.