Pope Leo Tells Bishops: No Cover-Ups in Abuse Cases

 

Pope Leo has urged the Catholic Church’s newly appointed bishops to confront clerical sexual abuse head-on, warning them against hiding allegations that have long tarnished the Church’s reputation.

In a message released Friday, the Pope emphasized transparency, justice and compassion, calling for fairness to both victims and the accused. Addressing about 200 bishops in a closed-door session, he said the Church must “choose truth over silence” in order to restore credibility.

The directive marks a continuation of Pope Francis’ campaign against abuse, though critics say progress during his 12-year papacy was uneven. Leo, who assumed the papacy in May after Francis’ death, is expected to push harder for reforms.

Beyond abuse, Leo encouraged the bishops to foster a Church that is more welcoming and engaged with contemporary questions, moving away from rigid seminary traditions. 

“The Church cannot remain distant from the realities of today’s world,” he told them.