Flynn Wants Pope to Meet Victims

Former Boston Mayor and Ambassador to the Vatican Ray Flynn says he wanted Pope Benedict XVI to visit Boston to address the clergy sex abuse crisis, but now hopes the pontiff will meet directly with victims of the scandal instead.

"It's one thing to issue a statement, and that of course if very very important," said Flynn. "But it's another thing to really meet with people, and apologize on behalf of the Catholic church, i think that would really begin the healing process."

WBUR's Delores Handy had a conversation with Flynn about this and other topics concerning the papal visit.

This piece originally aired Tuesday, April 15, 2008.