Pope Leo XIV to Meet Clergy Abuse Victims in France During Official Visit

Pope Leo XIV is scheduled to meet with victims of clergy sexual abuse in France on September 27, 2026. This meeting is part of his official visit to the country, marking the first papal visit to France in nearly two decades. The Pope’s itinerary includes a significant engagement with those who have suffered due to clergy misconduct, emphasizing the Church’s commitment to accountability and justice.

The day before the meeting, on September 26, Pope Leo XIV celebrated an open-air Mass attended by hundreds of thousands of faithful. Following the Mass, he visited the Grotto of the Apparitions in Massabielle, a revered site in Lourdes, where he offered prayers. This visit underscores the Pope’s dedication to both spiritual leadership and addressing critical issues within the Church.

France, known for its secular governance yet rich Catholic heritage, serves as a poignant backdrop for this visit. As the leader of the Catholic Church, which has over 1.4 billion adherents globally, Pope Leo XIV’s engagement with abuse victims aligns with the Church’s ongoing efforts to confront and rectify past wrongs. This visit, lasting four days, reflects a commitment to transparency and healing, resonating with the biblical call for justice and mercy (Micah 6:8).

In this context, the Pope’s actions highlight a broader ecclesiastical responsibility to uphold justice and care for the vulnerable, embodying the principle of loving one’s neighbor (Luke 12:48). The visit serves as a reminder of the Church’s duty to foster peace and reconciliation, aligning with the biblical mandate to “speak the truth in love” (Ephesians 4:15).

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