Pope Leo XIV urges Spain’s Catholic hierarchy to respond to clergy sexual abuse by providing reparations to survivors and adopting what he calls a “culture of care.” Multiple outlets report that the pope delivers his message directly to Spanish bishops, emphasizing that the Church should listen to survivors and address the crisis with transparency. The comments are described as among his strongest yet on scandals that have damaged the Church’s credibility.
Several reports also say his visit includes expectations of direct engagement with abuse survivors, alongside a broader call for prevention and protection going forward. France 24 and others link the heightened attention to Spain to past years in which the scale of abuse was reportedly dismissed, until investigative reporting brought new focus on alleged cover-ups.
Other coverage adds that the pope highlights the need for a long-term commitment by the wider church community to prevention and care, and that he uses public remarks beyond the bishops’ meeting. Deutsche Welle and IOL report that he also speaks to Spain’s parliament about dignity for all people, including migrants.
