Pope Leo XIV: Zero Tolerance for Abuse in the Church!

2025-06-21 18:01:05.975

Pope Leo XIV has declared a "zero tolerance" policy for abuse within the Catholic Church, thanking Peruvian journalist Paola Ugaz for her courageous reporting on abuse within the Sodalitium Christianae Vitae (SCV). In a message read at a play dramatizing Ugaz's work, the Pope stated the urgency of establishing a church culture that prevents abuse of power, authority, conscience, spirituality, and sexual abuse. He emphasized the need for active vigilance, transparent processes, and sincere listening to victims. Leo praised Ugaz and other journalists for their reporting, acknowledging the unjust attacks they faced, and highlighted the importance of a free press, especially in a country like Peru facing social and political tensions. He called for a "conversion," not just a strategy, to address the issue, referencing Pope Francis' 2018 letter on protecting minors and vulnerable adults. The Pope's message was read at a performance of "Proyecto Ugaz" in Lima, Peru, with Ugaz and Monsignor Jordi Bertomeu present. The Pope's support for investigative journalism stands in contrast to past criticism from some bishops. He underscored the vital role of journalists in ensuring that no one suffers in silence and that the truth is not suppressed. This message follows a previous meeting with media representatives where Leo affirmed his support for a free press and called for the release of imprisoned journalists.