World · World News Bureau
Pope calls for decisive action against abuse within Church
The pontiff addressed Catholic bishops in France, urging them to confront what he described as a persistent scourge afflicting the institution. His remarks came ahead of a major religious service in Lourdes.
LSN World News ·
Pope Leo has called on the Catholic Church to mount a comprehensive effort to eliminate abuse from within its ranks, speaking directly to bishops gathered in France. The pontiff characterized the problem as a deeply rooted issue requiring urgent and sustained action by Church leadership.
The pope's comments were delivered during a bishops' conference preceding a large-scale service in the pilgrimage town of Lourdes, which drew thousands of worshippers. His address underscored the Church's commitment to confronting institutional failures that have eroded public trust in recent decades.
The pontiff did not provide specific details regarding new measures or initiatives but emphasized that tackling abuse must be a priority for diocesan leadership across all levels of the Church hierarchy. His remarks reflected ongoing pressure on the Vatican to demonstrate concrete reforms and accountability mechanisms.
The Lourdes gathering represented one of several high-profile appearances the pope has made in Europe, using such platforms to address systemic challenges facing the global Catholic community.