Pope: Bishops who covered up for abuse guilty of wrongdoing

The pope visited Philadelphia as part of the World Meeting of Families.

Francis told the victims who were abused by a member of the clergy that he was “deeply sorry” for the times when the abuse was reported, but victims or their families “were not heard or believed”, the statement said.

Speaking of cover-ups of clerical abuse of minors, Francis said for the first time, specifically, that even a few bishops are guilty.

Instead, “I felt the need to express compassion because something really bad happened”. But they have been days of great grace for me and, I pray, for you too.

That has led to a few US dioceses having to make huge compensation payments to victims and accusations from survivors that Vatican has not dealt properly with child-abuse allegations.

The pope told the audience that these crimes can no longer be kept secret, and said “God weeps” because of them.

“The words of the past can help us work toward a better future”, Pope Francis said in front of an admiring crowd.

His day began where he spent the night, at St. Charles Borromeo Seminary, where he met with five victims of child sexual abuse.

In his final speech at the airport, Francis thanked all those who worked to prepare for his visit.

While you were busy planning for your Super Moon party over the weekend, Pope Francis crossed paths with something of similar cosmic importance – BABY POPE.

“Conscientious objection must enter into every juridical structure because it is a right”, Francis said, as reported by Reuters.

Pope Francis is headed home, leaving the United States after a five-day trip with “a heart full of gratitude and hope”.

“What surprised me was the warmth, the warmth of the people so lovable”. “In Washington, it was a warm welcome, but a bit more formal…”

On Friday, he arrived in New York where he addressed the United Nations General Assembly before heading to Philadelphia, where his appearances took a more pastoral turn. “I will continue to fight for you until my last breath”.

Philadelphia Mayor Michael Nutter spoke Monday following Pope Francis’ historic visit to Philadelphia for the World Meeting of Families. He will host a synod of bishops next week that likely will define church policy on divorce and annulment and its approach to teaching on fundamental church principles that also are political issues in the United States – abortion and gay marriage. Your care for me and your generous welcome are a sign of your love for Jesus and your faithfulness to him.

“I am sure that this woman was welcomed (in heaven) by God”, he added.

“I’m not very religious, but it was very moving”, said Iredale’s daughter Hannah, 16, who found much to like about the pope.