"I wish to express my empathy, compassion and support for the injured adults who turned out to be defenceless against manipulation based on pseudo-theology," Polak said in a statement he shared with the state PAP news agency.
He issued the statement after a committee of experts on Wednesday published a report with allegations of physical and sexual abuse against a priest in the Dominican Order.
Polak said in his statement that the victims "suffered physical violence and sexual exploitation at the hands of a monk," while also being "wronged by the lack of understanding and backing from the Dominican authorities."
He thanked the victims for their "courage and determination to expose the wrongdoing," and hailed the committee's "enormous work, motivated by genuine care for the injured and love of the Church."
He also said that the Dominican fathers "showed courage and humility in embracing the painful truth."
"As Catholics, we must all heed the committee's findings, not least the recommendation that we stand up firmly for the injured and effectively protect those who are the weakest," Polak said in his statement.
He observed the scandal could "unfairly tarnish the image and relationships of hard-working priests and monks."
"I am praying that we come through this test stronger, trusting that Christ is with us in such a hurtful experience," Polak said in concluding the statement.
(pm/gs)
Source: PAP