‘Scourge’ of abuse must be rooted out, says Pope, during Lourdes visit

Pope Leo urged French bishops to eradicate the ‘scourge’ of sexual abuse within the Catholic Church, emphasizing vigilance ahead of a meeting with abuse survivors. He celebrated Mass in Lourdes in front of thousands and later met privately with victims. A 2021 inquiry found approximately 330,000 people had been abused by clergy or church members in France over 70 years. The Pope also met French President Emmanuel Macron and encouraged young people to openly practice their faith.