Pope Leo meets six abuse survivors in Peru

Pope Leo XIV met six survivors of abuse by clergy members and church institutions in Peru on Thursday, while thousands of young people gathered at Lima’s National Stadium to welcome him during his Latin America trip, Anadolu Agency reported, citing Vatican News.

The meeting took place at the Apostolic Nunciature in Lima and lasted more than an hour, according to a statement from the Holy See Press Office.

After a brief greeting in the nunciature’s chapel, the pope met with each survivor individually and listened to their accounts of suffering and pain.

They also discussed the need for a change in the Church’s mindset through listening to victims, seeking the truth, supporting healing processes and creating safe environments.

Earlier, thousands of young people gathered at Lima’s National Stadium to welcome Leo, whose return to Peru was met with an emotional reception.

Flags from several Latin American countries, including Chile, Bolivia, Venezuela, Brazil and Ecuador, filled the stadium.