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(NewsNation) — Pope Leo met Monday for the first time with a group of survivors of sex abuse and advocates for victims in the Vatican.

Ending Clergy Abuse defines itself as a global network of human rights defenders and survivors working together to end clergy sex abuse and impunity.

The group said Pope Leo promised to maintain a permanent dialogue as they press for a zero-tolerance policy for abuse in the Catholic Church.

Participants who came from Argentina, Uganda, Canada, Germany and the United States said the audience inside the Apostolic Palace lasted one hour and the pope listened intently to their concerns. They said they found him to be humble, sincere and committed to ending abuse, although they said he asked them to be patient.

“Pope Leo was very open, and each of us shared some personal reflections. He was warm and listened to us. He also has a good sense of humor-very humble,” said Gemma Hickey of Canada, ECA Board President.

The meeting included a discussion of the work the Vatican has done on abuse through the Pontifical Commission for the Protection of Minors. The pope suggested the two bodies establish dialogue, according to the Vatican.

“It was a deeply meaningful conversation, reflecting a shared commitment to justice, healing, and genuine change,” Hickey said. “Survivors have long sought a place at the table, and today we felt heard.”