The Pope apologises to sex abuse victims

Pope Benedict XVI has expressed his "deep sorrow" for the "unspeakable crimes" of child abuse within the Catholic Church. The strongest public apology yet over the scandal was offered during a Mass at Westminster Cathedral on the London leg of his four-day state visit , according to BBC News.

The Pope then conducted a prayer vigil with thousands of people in Hyde Park. Later it was confirmed that the Pope had met five people who had suffered abuse at the hands of the clergy.

Speaking to hundreds of members of the Catholic Church, including senior clergy, the Pope said he was gravely concerned by "the immense suffering" caused by the abuse, especially by Church ministers. He also acknowledged "the shame and humiliation" caused by "these sins".

"Above all, I express my deep sorrow to the innocent victims of these unspeakable crimes, along with my hope that the power of Christ's grace, his sacrifice of reconciliation, will bring deep healing and peace to their lives," he told the congregation.

He said he hoped this "chastisement will contribute to the healing of the victims, the purification of the Church and the renewal of her age-old commitment to the education and care of young people."

"I express my gratitude for the efforts being made to address this problem responsibly, and I ask all of you to show your concern for the victims and solidarity with your priests."