Church should respond to child abuse

(ANSA) - Vatican City, February 8 - The Catholic Church should respond "directly" to victims of child sex abuse by clergy, according to a recommendation by the Pontifical Commission for the Protection of Minors announced on Monday. Other proposals to be submitted to Pope Francis for consideration following seven days of meetings in Rome include establishing a universal day of prayer and creating a penitential liturgy, the Vatican said in a statement.
    The Pontifical Commission for the Protection of Minors came into being in 2014 as part of a drive by Pope Francis to rid the church of the scourge of child abuse and help victims. It is mandated to advise the pope on how the Catholic Church should protect children and help victims of sexual abuse by the clergy.