Pope Francis asks for forgiveness for damage to children by sexual abusers among the clergy

Vatican Church authority has faced numerous challenges and allegations of child sex abuse by priests around the world and criticism over inadequate responses by bishops.

Pope Francis has asked for forgiveness for the "evil" damage to children caused by sexual abusers by the clergies. He made that statement while speaking on Friday, during a meeting with a Catholic children's non-governmental organisation, the Vatican Radio website reports.

Pope Francis message to marks his first year in office

The Pope of  Catholic Church, Pope Francis is celebrating his first year in office. Argentinean-born pontiff is currently on a week-long spiritual retreat with cardinals and bishops in the Alban Hills near Rome.

On Thursday, while marking the first anniversary of his election, Pope through a tweeted message on his twitter account to his 12 million followers, says “Please pray for me”.