Pope Francis Holds Meeting with Victims of Clergy Abuse

Pope Francis met with 17 victims of clergy abuse in Belgium on September 27, following his meeting with faculty at the Catholic University of Leuven. The meeting took place at the Apostolic Nunciature in Brussels, where the victims shared their individual experiences and expectations for the Church’s efforts to combat abuse.

The Holy See Press Office reported that the Pope listened to the victims’ stories and expressed his shame for the suffering they endured at the hands of priests who were entrusted with their care. The Pope praised the victims for their courage and acknowledged their contributions to the Church’s efforts to address the issue.

The meeting was a significant step in the Church’s ongoing efforts to address the issue of clergy abuse and provide support to victims.