Pope Benedict XVI expressed his ''deep sorrow'' yesterday for the ''immense suffering'' of children abused by Catholic priests, in a homily on the third day of his state visit to Britain.

''I think of the immense suffering caused by the abuse of children, especially within the church and by her ministers,'' he said during Mass at the Catholic Westminster Cathedral in London.

''Above all, I express my deep sorrow to the innocent victims of these unspeakable crimes, along with my hope that the power of Christ's grace, his sacrifice of reconciliation, will bring deep healing and peace to their lives.

''I also acknowledge, with you, the shame and humiliation which all of us have suffered because of these sins.''

The Pope said he hoped ''this chastisement will contribute to the healing of the victims'' and ''the purification of the church''.

Pope's sorrow over abuse