Pope Addresses Abuse Crisis Amid Calls for Action

During his visit to Belgium, Pope Francis pledged to address the clerical sexual abuse crisis, responding to urgent calls from Belgian Prime Minister Alexander De Croo and King Philippe for concrete actions. The pontiff's visit follows a recent documentary that reignited public outrage over decades of abuse and cover-ups by the Church. De Croo emphasized the need for transparency and accountability, stating that victims must be central to the Church's efforts to seek forgiveness and prevent future abuses. Francis plans to meet with 15 victims of clerical abuse, arranged by the Belgian bishops' conference. However, skepticism remains, with some political leaders boycotting meetings with the Pope, criticizing the Vatican's handling of the abuse crisis. The Pope's visit is marked by a mix of hope for change and ongoing mistrust towards the Church's commitment to addressing the abuses.