Pope Francis has admitted that he personally ordered an investigation into claims of child sexual abuse in Spain.
Earlier this week three priests and a lay person in the city of Granada were arrested by police looking into the allegations.
It comes after Francis was sent a letter from a man who said he was a victim of the abuse.
"I read it. I called the person and I told him 'go to the bishop tomorrow' and then I wrote to the bishop and told him to start an investigation," the Pope told reporters.
He added: "I received this news with great pain, very great pain, but the truth is the truth and we should not hide it."
Spanish Interior Minister Jorge Fernandez Diaz told reporters the allegations were of a historic nature and investigations by police had started 'some time ago'.
Francis has spoke of his zero tolerance policy for abuse of children after several Church scandals in recent years.
News you can believe in. Stand with Premier Christian News today.
Your gift today ensures that Premier Christian News can press forward in strength, reaching more people with biblical truth and shaping the future of Christian thought. It’s more than just a donation—it’s an investment in renewed minds and transformed lives.
Without continued support, the ability to create and distribute resources that strengthen faith and equip the church will be compromised. But with your help, we can grow deeper, stand firmer, and shine brighter in the culture.
Your support today is critical.
Support Us
Article by Antony Bushfield
Antony Bushfield is a multimedia journalist for Premier.
