Catholic leaders in Minsk protested after law enforcement agencies blocked the entry of Sts. Simon and Helena Church and later arrested protesters who had fled inside to avoid police.

Victims had suffered additional pain from the way they were treated by leaders and other members of orders. “We deeply regret this and acknowledge our failure once again,” a representative for the German church said.

The German Catholic news agency KNA notes the president of the bishops’ conference has so far been virtually the only bishop not to comment publicly on the document.

Archbishop Stefan Hesse, Germany’s youngest bishop, said he was entering reform talks with an open mind.

While reciting the Angelus, Pope Francis urged people to pray for various intentions, including praying for those suffering from the pandemic.

In a message read in churches nationwide Aug. 16, the bishops said: “Blood has been shed in an active confrontation, leaving many physical and moral victims, including peaceful and innocent people of all ages.”