Pope apologises for “unspeakable crimes”

18/09/10 16:38 CET

world news

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Pope Benedict has once again apologised to victims of sexual abuse, saying paedophile priests had caused “shame and humiliation” .

Former British Prime Minister Tony Blair was among those to hear the Pope’s apologies during a sermon in Westminster Cathedral.

“I think of the immense suffering caused by the abuse of children,” said the Pope. “Especially within the Church and by her ministers. Above all, I express my deep sorrow to the innocent victims of these unspeakable crimes.”

Some 2000 people attended the mass in central London.

Earlier the Pope met with Britain’s deputy prime minister Nick Clegg, who is married to a Spanish Catholic, and Prime Minister David Cameron. He is on the third day of a four day official tour of the United Kingdom.

More about: Benedict XVI, David Cameron, Religion

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