Pope Leo XIV met with French survivors of clergy sexual abuse in a private session, where he acknowledged the systemic nature of abuse within the Catholic Church. Survivors praised the Pope for listening with “unusual depth,” according to reports. One survivor described the moment as “extraordinary,” recalling how the Pope took him in his arms.
During the meeting, the Pope expressed his commitment to preventing further harm, emphasizing the need for accountability and reform. The encounter took place in France, where the Catholic Church has faced ongoing scrutiny over historical abuse cases. The Pope’s visit coincided with his public engagement in Europe, including a meeting with French President Emmanuel Macron in Metz.
Macron, during the same visit, urged European nations to resist the “return of nationalisms,” calling for unity and shared values. The Pope’s meeting with abuse survivors highlights growing pressure on the Church to address past wrongs and improve transparency. The Church has faced increasing calls for reform in recent years, particularly in France and other European countries.
