In a nearly three-hour audience, Pope Leo XIV received 15 people from Belgium at the Vatican who were victims of abuse by clergy members when they were minors.
The meeting took place in an atmosphere described as one of “closeness to the victims, deep listening, and painful dialogue.” The gathering concluded with an intense moment of prayer and was attended by members of the Pontifical Commission for the Protection of Minors, who have been working with the Belgian Church on issues of protection and follow-up.
Why is this audience so important?
Because it represents a concrete step by the Church toward transparency, accountability, and genuine support for those who suffered abuse, in the midst of ongoing criticism regarding the effectiveness of the Church’s response.
This gesture of the Pope Leo XIV not only aims to bring comfort to the victims but also to reinforce the Church’s commitment to safeguarding minors, ensuring their voices are heard, and preventing the recurrence of such acts in the future.