Francis said that until he sees proof that Bishop Juan Barros was complicit in covering up the sex crimes of the Reverend Fernando Karadima, such accusations against the bishop are “all calumny”. The pope’s remarks drew shock from Chileans and immediate rebuke from victims and their advocates. Francis had sought to heal the wounds by meeting this week with abuse victims and begging forgiveness for the crimes of church pastors. “The day they bring me proof against Bishop Barros, I’ll speak,” Francis said. “Then right before leaving, Francis turns around and says: ‘By the way, I don’t think Barros is guilty.

Source: The Irish Times January 19, 2018 19:54 UTC