Pope Francis on Sunday addressed the scourge of clergy sex abuse, vowing that the Catholic Church would provide "careful oversight" to protect young believers.
In unscripted remarks at the beginning of an address to bishops from around the globe, Francis said "great harm" was caused by the clergy sex abuse scandal that has marred the church for more than a decade.
Francis said he met with survivors of clerical sex abuse on Sunday and promised to hold clergy responsible for abuse accountable.
"Those who have survived have become true heralds of mercy," Francis said.
"Humbly we owe each of them our gratitude for their courage."
The comments on clergy sex abuse from Francis comes as he prepares to wrap up his U.S. tour, a historic visit which will culminate with an outdoor Mass in the City of Brotherly Love that organizers say will draw hundreds of thousands of participants.
