The demand that everyone expects: Francisco asks for concrete measures against sexual abuse

In the midst of a historic moment when the Church began to recognize the horror of badual abuse minors, the pope Francisco He said that what is expected of the Church "is not only to condemn the abuses of its members, but also to take concrete and effective measures to eradicate them." This was said during his speech at the beginning of the meeting to address badual abuse as part of the church in the Vatican.

Earlier, he said, "The people of God are watching us and expecting from us not simple and obvious condemnations, but concrete and effective measures." Before the 190 representatives of the Church hierarchy met to deal with the problem, he recalled that "the concretion is necessary".

"Before the plague of badual aggression perpetrated by the men of the Church against minors, I thought to consult you, patriarchs, cardinals, archbishops, bishops, religious superiors and leaders, so that together (…) we can hear the cry of the little ones who ask for justice, "began Francisco.

The pontiff told those present that "on this meeting weighs the pastoral and ecclesial responsibility, which obliges us to discuss together, in a synodal, sincere and profound way on how to face this evil which afflicts the Church. and humanity ". The pope said that he would give participants, including 114 representatives of the Bishops' Conferences, "guidelines" to help with reflection and would be "a simple starting point".

In addition, Francis asked that the Holy Spirit help the Church in these days to "turn this evil into an opportunity to become aware and purify," while praying the Virgin Mary to enlighten the Church. Church to "try to heal the serious wounds caused by the scandal of pedophilia to children and believers".