The fact that Francis received the eight-page letter challenges his insistence that he has “zero tolerance” for sex abuse and cover-ups.

Reports that dozens of “hostesses” were sexually harassed at the Presidents Club fundraiser led several charities to return donations from the event.

Until now Pope Francis has stood firmly by Bishop Barros.

He just doesn’t get it when it comes to victims of abuse.

“I ask forgiveness,” the pope said on his flight from Lima to Rome. “It’s a hurt [caused] without wishing it.”

“Pope Francis’ statements...were a source of great pain for survivors of sexual abuse,” Cardinal O’Malley said in a statement released Jan. 20.