Paul KeenanGroup will include Irish victims
Pope Francis has revealed that he will meet with victims of clerical sexual abuse – including Irish – next week at the Vatican.
During his flight to Rome on May 26 following his three-day visit to the Holy Land, the Pontiff fielded questions from journalists on board the papal plane, and in the course of exchanges made his announcement.
Describing sexual abuse of children as “an ugly crime” comparable to the performing of a Black mass, Pope Francis stated that the Church must engage in a policy of “zero tolerance” on the issue.
On the meeting, to take place at Domus Sanctae Marthae, will see six to eight victims meet with the Pope, drawn from Ireland, England and Germany, and in the presence of Cardinal Sean P. O'Malley, a member of the recently established Vatican commission on the protection of minors. The will be drawn from Ireland, Germany and England. The Pope will also celebrate Mass for the group.
Pope Francis further informed journalists that three bishops are currently under investigation by the Vatican for alleged sex abuse while another has been found guilty and is awaiting punishment.