Daily Catholic News:
Pope Leo recently met with French victims of abuse in Lourdes, expressing his solidarity with them and extending it to all those who have suffered and continue to suffer from the wounds of abuse. This was confirmed by the Vatican, which highlighted the Pope’s commitment to addressing the issue of abuse within the Church.
In a separate event, Pope Leo is preparing to visit Metz, a city at the crossroads of France, Germany, and Luxembourg. The visit comes at a time when Europe is grappling with a deepening divide over immigration. The Pope’s message during this visit is anticipated to address the issue of welcoming strangers and the consequences of mass immigration.
While in Lourdes, Pope Leo delivered a speech to sick people and caregivers, denouncing France’s recent legalization of euthanasia and assisted suicide. The Pope referred to the act of killing the sick as ‘false compassion’, expressing the Church’s stance on the sanctity of life.
Archbishop Bashar Warda of Erbil has called for investment in the future of young Christians in Iraq. He pointed out that the structure of the country’s economy is part of the problem, emphasizing the need for long-term stability which he believes requires job creation for Iraq’s Christians.
On the third day of his visit to France, Pope Leo spoke about the urgency of repentance and conversion during a Mass in Lourdes. He stated that the Church must heal her ‘wounds, infidelities, and painful errors’, highlighting the need for introspection and change within the Church.