(ANSA) - VATICAN CITY, APRIL 01 - The Pope expressed "indignation", "shame", "pain" for what Canadian natives suffered in Catholic residential schools.
"They ask God for forgiveness" for "this reprehensible conduct" of some members of the Church.
"I am very saddened", "I join the Canadian bishops in apologizing to you", said Pope Francescon in the audience in the Vatican with the Canadian natives and bishops.
Then he announced his trip to the country: "See you in Canada where I can better express my closeness".
"It gives me joy to think of the veneration that has spread among many of you towards Saint Anne, the grandmother of Jesus. This year I would like to be with you in those days," said the Pope.
Sant'Anna is celebrated on July 26th.
(HANDLE).