Pope Leo XIV’s apostolic journey to Spain, which begins tomorrow, June 6, will include a meeting with “victims of abuse by members of the clergy in Spain.” Matteo Bruni, director of the Holy See Press Office, confirmed the meeting on the office’s Telegram profile following media reports. “The meeting was organized by the Spanish Church. Further information may be provided after the meeting itself, with respect for the victims, their wishes, and their privacy,” Bruni said.
The issue of abuse remains painful for the Spanish Church, which in recent years has implemented various initiatives for prevention and reparation. Most recently, in March, the Spanish Episcopal Conference, the Conference of Religious, and the Ministry of the Presidency agreed on a protocol to address the reality with truth and justice. Several local media outlets raised the issue ahead of the papal visit, and some reported that a number of Spanish victims had sent letters to the Pope requesting an audience.
Today’s confirmation establishes that Pope Leo XIV will hold this private, closed-door dialogue. Similar meetings have taken place before, including during Pope Benedict XVI’s visits to the United States in 2008, as well as to the United Kingdom, Australia, and Germany. Pope Francis also met with victims during visits to Chile, Ireland, Portugal, and Belgium.