Pope Leo XIV Meets Child Protection Commission Amid Calls for Accountability
VATICAN CITY — Pope Leo XIV held an important meeting with the Vatican’s child protection advisory commission on Thursday, in light of growing concerns regarding his past handling of clergy sexual abuse cases. Survivors are urging him to implement a strict zero-tolerance policy against abuse within the Catholic Church.
The Pontifical Commission for the Protection of Minors, consisting of both religious leaders and abuse survivors, described their hour-long discussion with the Pope as a significant opportunity for reflection and renewal of the Church’s commitment to protecting children and vulnerable individuals. They briefed Pope Leo on their efforts, particularly initiatives aimed at supporting church communities in impoverished areas to prevent abuse and assist victims.
Details of the Pope’s comments during the meeting have not been shared with the media.
Pope Francis established this commission early in his tenure, appointing Cardinal Sean O’Malley, the former archbishop of Boston, to lead it and guide the Church on best practices to combat abuse.
However, as the abuse scandal has spread worldwide over the past twelve years, the commission’s effectiveness has diminished. Its initial bold recommendation to create a tribunal for bishops who shield predator priests went unaddressed. Although the commission has undergone significant changes and now serves as a platform for victims to be heard, many feel more action is needed.
Cardinal O’Malley, although retired from his archbishop position, remains a key figure as the commission’s president and participated in the recent meeting with Pope Leo.
O’Malley has often been the voice addressing serious cases at the Vatican, including the case of Rev. Marko Rupnik, a Jesuit accused by multiple women of severe abuse. Following criticism regarding preferential treatment, Pope Francis instructed the Vatican to prosecute Rupnik canonically; however, there are reports that the necessary judicial proceedings have not yet commenced, leaving victims seeking justice.
Meanwhile, Pope Leo has been praised by some survivors for actively dismantling an abusive movement in Peru during his previous role as bishop. However, other victims have raised concerns regarding unanswered cases from his time as a religious superior and his leadership roles in Peru and the Vatican.
The U.S.-based survivor group SNAP has called on Pope Leo to enforce a policy that mandates the permanent removal of any priest credibly accused of abuse.
As Pope Leo navigates these challenging issues, the hope remains for substantial changes that prioritize the safety and well-being of all parishioners.
