Pope Francis: 'Put an End to Abuse Cover-Ups'

Pope Francis delivered a powerful message during the Holy Mass at the King Baudouin Stadium in Brussels on Sunday, September 29, urging the Church to never cover up abuse and to listen to the voices of those who have suffered.

In his homily, the Pope spoke about the deep communion that unites Christ's disciples throughout time, emphasizing a bond formed by "love that unites through mutual self-giving."

He reminded the faithful of the constant temptation toward selfishness, a force that stifles charity and "crushes the little ones."

"The path of selfishness leads to closed-mindedness, creating walls and obstacles—what we may call 'scandals'—that bind us to material things and distance us from God and one another," the Pope stated.

Speaking extemporaneously, Pope Francis shared a poignant moment from his trip, recalling his meeting on Friday with survivors of abuse by clergy members in Brussels.

"I heard the suffering of abuse victims," he said. "In the Church, there is room for everyone, but we will all be judged. There is no place for abuse or its cover-up. I urge everyone, especially bishops, not to hide abuse! Condemn the abusers and help them heal from this disease."

He continued, "Evil must be brought to light. Let it be known, as some abuse victims have done, with courage. Let the abuser be judged—whether layperson, priest, or bishop."

Pope Francis also drew attention to the plight of refugees and undocumented migrants, who, in their quest for a better life, often fall victim to exploitation. He described their cries for justice as prophetic voices that must not be ignored.

"They are the living voices of the Spirit, reminding us that we are all poor sinners called to conversion," the Pope said. "We must not suffocate or silence this prophetic voice through indifference."