Vatican Press Release: Pope meets with sex abuse victims
PRESS RELEASE OF THE HOLY SEE PRESS OFFICE FOLLOWING THE MEETING OF THE HOLY FATHER
WITH VICTIMS OF SEXUAL ABUSE BY MEMBERS OF CLERGY
On Saturday 18 September
2010, in the Apostolic Nunciature in London, the Holy Father met a group of persons
who had been sexually abused by members of the clergy. He was moved by what they
had to say and expressed his deep sorrow and shame over what victims and their families
had suffered. He prayed with them and assured them that the Catholic Church is continuing
to implement effective measures designed to safeguard young people, and that it is
doing all in its power to investigate allegations, to collaborate with civil authorities
and to bring to justice clergy and religious accused of these egregious crimes. As
he has done on other occasions, he prayed that all the victims of abuse might experience
healing and reconciliation, and be able to overcome their past and present distress
with serenity and hope for the future. Following this meeting, the Holy Father
will address a group of professionals and volunteers dedicated to the safeguarding
of children and young people in church environments.