Pope summons cardinals over abuse scandals

POPE Benedict XVI has summoned his cardinals to Rome to discuss the Catholic Church’s response to cases of sexual abuse by clergymen, the Vatican said.

The unprecedented talks set for November 19, which come on the eve of a meeting that will formally recognise 24 new cardinals, will also discuss the procedure for accepting Anglican converts into the Church.

“The Pope has invited the members of the college of cardinals and the new cardinals to a day of reflection and prayer on Friday, November 19,” it said, adding that “the Church’s response to sexual abuse cases,” will be among the themes.