"The Holy Father met a small group of persons who were sexually abused by members of the clergy," the statement said.

"He prayed with them and assured them that the Church is doing, and will continue to do, all in its power to investigate allegations, to bring to justice those responsible for abuse and to implement effective measures designed to safeguard young people in the future.

Before leaving for Rome, Benedict is due to address thousands of young Maltese Catholics who have been invited to meet him on the quayside in Valletta.