Pope Leo XIV is set to meet seven survivors of sexual abuse linked to Catholic personnel during his four-day visit to France from September 25 to 28, with the private encounter scheduled in Lourdes. The meeting comes as survivors and advocacy groups continue to seek stronger measures from the Catholic Church to address abuse and improve accountability.
The French Bishops’ Conference said the meeting was planned as a personal encounter, following the Pope’s expressed desire to meet survivors. Vatican officials have said those participating will be involved in preparing the meeting.
The issue remains particularly significant in France following a 2021 independent inquiry that estimated around 330,000 children had suffered sexual abuse in the French Catholic Church over seven decades. Survivors and campaigners have continued to call for institutional reforms, prevention measures and accountability alongside compensation.
Leo previously met abuse survivors during his June visit to Spain and said he would consider their suggestions on improving the Church’s response. His Lourdes visit is also taking place as controversy continues over allegations against former Jesuit artist Marko Rupnik, whose mosaics at the sanctuary are being covered following concerns about their presence there.
The Pope’s France itinerary will include Paris, Lourdes and Metz, with meetings involving French officials, bishops, young people and European representatives.
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