Pope Leo XIV to Meet Clergy Sexual Abuse Victims in Lourdes during France Visit

Pope Leo XIV concluded a visit to Paris, where he drew large crowds, by heading to the southwestern pilgrimage town of Lourdes, France. Here, he is scheduled for a private meeting with victims of clergy sexual abuse. This meeting is part of his four-day trip, marking the first official papal visit to France in nearly two decades.

The pope’s visit follows a global sexual abuse scandal that has prompted calls for reform within the Church. As part of his visit, Pope Leo XIV met with seven victims, including a former pupil from the Notre-Dame de Bétharram institution, which has faced widespread accusations of abuse over decades.

The previous day, the pope visited the Grotto of Massabielle in Lourdes, a site of Marian apparitions according to Catholic tradition. There, he prayed for France, seeking guidance for future leaders to promote human rights and peace, reflecting the biblical call to seek justice and serve the common good as seen in Micah 6:8.

This visit occurs amidst a politically charged environment in France, with the far-right gaining momentum and immigration being a significant issue. The pope’s prayers at the shrine emphasized a vision for leaders who reject conflict and work towards the common good, aligning with the scriptural encouragement to act justly and love mercy.

This meeting and visit underscore the Church’s ongoing efforts to address past wrongs and support victims, resonating with the biblical principle of caring for the marginalized and seeking reconciliation, as echoed in Proverbs 31:8-9.

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