Pope Francis told newly ordained bishops Saturday that they must reject all forms of abuse and work in communion to fight the clerical culture that has fuelled the sex abuse and cover-up scandal rocking his papacy. Francis cited his recent letter about combatting abuse during an audience with 74 new bishops from 34 countries in the developing world.

The bishops are in Rome this week to learn how to lead their dioceses. Their seminar has come during a moment of crisis for Francis, accused by a lone archbishop of having covered up for a disgraced ex-cardinal, who in turn has been accused of sexually molesting children as well as adult seminarians. Francis has ignored calls from clergy and ordinary faithful to respond directly to the claims, saying there are times when "silence and prayer" are the best response.