Former Pope Benedict “heartfelt request for forgiveness”

Former Pope Benedict has pushed back at claims he was aware a priest under his rule was abusing children, while also seeking forgiveness

The 94-year-old was the first Pope in centuries to stand down from the position, with his tenure overshadowed by the then-growing global sexual abuse scandal.

Benedict has come under fire again recently following the release of a Church-commissioned report into abuse by the Catholic clergy in Germany.

The findings reveal Benedict had been informed about four cases of child sexual abuse during his time as Archbishop of Germany between 1977 and 1982, but failed to act.

The report documents an alleged meeting whereby Benedict was informed about one of the abusers.

But while the former Pope admits he was at the meeting… he denies he was made aware the priest present was an abuser.

In a letter, Benedict says:

“Once again I can only express to all the victims of sexual abuse my profound shame, my deep sorrow and my heartfelt request for forgiveness.”