Pope Francis, who presided over evening prayers Thursday in Quebec City, acknowledged sexual abuse of “minors and vulnerable people” for the first time since arriving in Canada.
In his homily, Francis said the Catholic Church in Canada is on a new path after being devastated by “the evil committed by some of its sons and daughters.”
He said tackling sexual violence and other similar “crimes” required “strong action” and “irreversible commitment”.
Francis has apologized during his visits to Alberta and Quebec for the role Catholic institutions play in the indigenous school system, but so far has not spoken directly about sexual abuse.
His sermon in Quebec City also said that as part of its efforts at reconciliation, the Christian community can never again be “infected” by the idea that one culture is superior to others.
Indigenous people are expressing a mix of hope and skepticism about the pope’s visit, with some saying Thursday they want to hear about the actions that will follow the pope’s historic apology.
Add Comment