Pope Leo XIV denounced sexual violence by Catholic clergy as a 'scourge' and called for a 'culture of care' during his visit to Spain. He is expected to meet privately with victims in Madrid, though some victim groups have complained of exclusion.
The pope also delivered an unprecedented speech to the Spanish parliament, addressing migration, peace, and life issues. His seven-day visit includes a trip to the Canary Islands to honor migrants lost at sea.
- Pope Leo XIV called clergy sexual abuse a 'scourge' and urged a 'culture of care' in the Church. - Some victim groups, including Infancia Robada, said they were excluded from the planned meeting with the pope.
- A 2023 report estimated 200,000 minors suffered sexual violence by clergy in Spain since 1940. - The pope gave an unprecedented speech to Spanish parliament, calling for global action on migration and peace.
The pope's visit continues with a blessing at Barcelona's Sagrada Familia and concludes in the Canary Islands.