VATICAN CITY — Pope Leo XIV denounced the sexual abuse of minors by Catholic clergy as a “scourge” and called for a strengthened “culture of care” in the Church during remarks made ahead of meetings with victims in Spain.
The pontiff addressed Spanish bishops on Monday, emphasizing the need for listening, truth, justice, reparation and prevention in response to the long-standing crisis. The comments come as the Church continues efforts to address clerical sexual abuse cases worldwide.
“Faced with this scourge, the ecclesial community is called to respond with listening, truth, justice, reparation and an ever more determined commitment to prevention and a culture of care,” the Pope told the gathering of bishops.
Pope Leo XIV made the remarks at the start of a seven-day visit to Spain that includes stops in Madrid, Barcelona and the Canary Islands. The trip is expected to include a private meeting with abuse survivors.
The Catholic Church has faced widespread criticism over decades for cases of sexual abuse by priests and subsequent cover-ups by some church leaders. Previous popes, including Francis, introduced reforms such as new laws on reporting and handling cases, removal of pontifical secrecy in certain instances, and global summits on the issue.
In earlier statements this year, Pope Leo has described failure to welcome victims as a scandal and stressed the need for accompaniment. He has met with survivors on multiple occasions since his election, including groups from various countries.
Church officials have reported progress in implementing safeguarding measures, training programs and cooperation with civil authorities in many dioceses. However, victims’ advocacy groups continue to call for stronger accountability, including zero-tolerance policies and greater transparency regarding past cases.
The Pope’s latest remarks reiterate the Church’s commitment to addressing the problem, which he has previously called an open wound. Details on specific new initiatives announced during the Spain visit remain subject to further official communications.
Sexual abuse in the Church remains a sensitive issue globally, with ongoing investigations and legal proceedings in several countries. The Vatican has maintained that protecting minors and vulnerable persons is a priority, while acknowledging the need for continued reform.
As of Tuesday, the papal visit continues with scheduled engagements. Further statements or actions related to the abuse crisis are anticipated during or after the trip, according to Vatican officials.
