Pope Leo XIV met six individuals who have been affected by clerical abuse in Peru on Thursday, including those linked to the disbanded Catholic society Sodalitium Christianae Vitae. This encounter took place amidst a backdrop of widespread criticism and calls for reform within the Church. The Pope's visit comes as he returns to the country where he served as a missionary and bishop for nearly two decades.
The US-born pontiff is well-acquainted with the abuse scandal in Peru, having worked extensively there during his time abroad. His meeting with the victims was an opportunity for him to engage with those who have been affected by the Church's actions. The Pope's presence in these meetings underscores the gravity of the issue and the need for accountability within the institution.
The six individuals met by the Pope were each given a private audience, during which they shared their experiences and stories of suffering. In response, the Vatican released a statement highlighting the importance of listening to victims and seeking truth in addressing the abuse scandal. The Church's commitment to creating safe environments is also paramount in this effort.
As part of his visit, the Pope reflected on the need for a shift in mindset within the Church, emphasizing the importance of empathy and understanding in healing and recovery. This process involves not only listening to victims but also pursuing truth and working towards the creation of secure spaces where abuse can be prevented.
The Sodalitium Christianae Vitae (SCV) lay society was founded in the 1970s and had a significant presence in Latin America before being shut down in 2025 due to allegations of abuse.
Robert Francis Prevost, now Pope Leo XIV, played a key role in addressing these claims as the bishop designated to hear from SCV victims. According to those who spoke out, he was supportive of their concerns and helped bring attention to the issue.
In a recent address to bishops, Pope Leo XIV acknowledged the deep pain caused by clerical abuse within the Catholic Church, describing it as "a reality that has caused us so much pain." He emphasized the need for the Church to take concrete steps towards healing and recovery.
The Vatican had previously announced plans to establish a dedicated "listening channel in Lima, where victims could share their experiences without fear of judgment. Assets seized from the SCV lay movement were set aside to compensate those who suffered at its hands.
As Pope Leo XIV continues his three-nation tour of Latin America, the issue of clergy abuse remains a pressing concern in Peru.
The US-based non-profit Bishop Accountability has compiled a list of 77 Peruvian clergy members accused of abusing minors, which was presented to the public on the eve of the pope's visit.
According to the group's co-director Anne Barrett Doyle, the Church must adopt a zero tolerance" policy towards abusers and provide comprehensive support to victims. This includes psychological and medical care, as well as social reintegration efforts that ultimately require financial assistance.
The list of accused clergy members has been met with calls for accountability from victims and their advocates, who are seeking justice and compensation for the harm inflicted on them.
The Pope's visit to Peru has been marked by high energy and enthusiasm from local crowds, who have welcomed him with open arms. Thousands of people lined up along the streets to catch a glimpse of him as he drove by in his popemobile, with some even dressing up as papal dignitaries themselves.
At a prayer vigil attended by over 60,000 young people at Lima's national stadium, the Pope made a point to walk among the crowd and greet them personally. Thousands held up their phones like torches as he moved through the throng, creating an electric atmosphere that was palpable throughout the event. His speech was filled with fond references to Peru's stunning landscapes and rich cultural heritage.
The Pope emphasized that his mission is akin to a challenging but rewarding journey, much like the famous path leading to Machu Picchu. He made it clear that his words are not just empty rhetoric, but rather a call to action for those in positions of authority within the Church.
Despite undergoing surgery for lung cancer just weeks ago, the Pope shows no signs of fatigue or weakness during this grueling trip to Uruguay, Argentina, and Peru. His message of hope and renewal has resonated deeply with local communities, who are eager to hear his words of encouragement and guidance.
The Pope's six-day visit to Peru has taken him through some of the country's most breathtaking landscapes and challenging terrain. His itinerary includes traversing the high Andes, including a stop in Cuzco at over 3,400 meters above sea level - a formidable test for someone recovering from lung surgery.
During his tenure as bishop in Chiclayo, Pope Leo XIV gained a deep understanding of the local communities' struggles and remained committed to supporting them through periods of hardship. His message has resonated deeply with these communities, who are eager to hear his words of encouragement and guidance. He emphasizes that walking together fosters communion.
The Pope's experiences on the Inca Trail have given him a profound appreciation for the importance of community support in times of adversity. Just as one should not attempt the arduous journey alone, he believes the Church must also learn from its mistakes and make amends with those who have been hurt by its actions.
France 24 English: https://www.france24.com/en/americas/20261113-pope-leo-xiv-meets-abuse-victims-in-peru-says-church-must-make-amends
