Pope Francis Commits to Addressing Clerical Abuse During Belgium Visit

Belgian Prime Minister and King urge the Pope to take concrete actions to address the Church's history of abuse and forced adoptions.

Pope Francis has vowed to root out the 'scourge' of clerical sexual abuse, emphasizing the need for the Church to seek forgiveness and take concrete steps.
Belgian Prime Minister Alexander De Croo and King Philippe pressed the Pope to prioritize victims and ensure transparency in addressing past abuses.
Francis acknowledged the Church's shame and committed to implementing a global prevention program to prevent future abuses.
The Pope also addressed the forced adoption scandal in Belgium, where nuns took newborns from unmarried mothers between 1945 and 1980.
Francis is scheduled to meet with 15 abuse survivors during his visit, highlighting the ongoing efforts to support victims and rebuild trust.