ROME (AP) — In a powerful address during his first catechism lesson of 2025, Pope Francis denounced the “scourge” of child labor and other abuses endured by children, emphasizing that those who harm or exploit minors will have to answer to God. He articulated this message during his weekly general audience, where he urged the faithful to not remain indifferent to this pressing issue, stating, “Children occupy a privileged place in God’s heart, and whoever harms them will be accountable to him” (HuffPost).

Pope Francis has frequently highlighted the plight of children during his overseas trips, including a notable condemnation during his 2023 visit to Congo, where he criticized foreign interests for exploiting children to extract the country’s precious natural resources, branding these actions as driven by the “poison of their own greed.” He poignantly called attention to the tragic realities that many children face, lamenting, “Let us think how many children are dying because of hunger, catastrophes, diseases and wars” (AP News).

During the audience, although the 88-year-old pope appeared congested and deviated from his prepared remarks, he remained energized by a performance from the African-themed circus troupe, CircAfrica. This troupe entertained the attendees in the Vatican auditorium with impressive acts including acrobatics, robot-operated puppet elephants, and dancers on roller skates.

While Pope Francis's speech did not explicitly mention the longstanding sexual abuse crisis within the Church, it underscored his enduring commitment to advocating for the vulnerable and holding accountable those who exploit children. “We must firmly prevent and condemn any abuse that minors may suffer,” he concluded, reinforcing the Catholic Church's moral duty towards protecting the young and innocent.