Pope orders reopening of case of prominent priest accused of abuse

Pope Francis has instructed a review of the Catholic Church’s handling of the case of Father Marko Ivan Rupnik, a renowned religious artist, who was expelled from the Jesuit religious order following allegations of sexual, psychological, and spiritual abuse of adult women. A statement issued on Friday revealed that the pope has requested the Vatican’s doctrinal office to investigate the matter and has revoked any statute of limitations that would normally apply, ensuring a thorough examination of the case.

The decision was made after the pope was made aware of serious deficiencies in the handling of the Rupnik case by a Vatican commission responsible for preventing sexual abuse. The commission also highlighted the lack of support provided to the victims. Consequently, the pope has taken steps to address these issues.

Approximately 25 individuals, primarily former nuns, have come forward with accusations against Rupnik. The alleged abuse encompasses various forms and occurred during Rupnik’s tenure as a spiritual director for a community of nuns in his native Slovenia around three decades ago, as well as during his time in Rome while pursuing his artistic career.

Reports of the allegations against Rupnik began to emerge in the Italian media late last year. Following these reports, the Jesuit headquarters acknowledged that he had been prohibited since 2019 from hearing confessions and leading spiritual retreats. In June, Rupnik was expelled from the Jesuit religious order and is believed to have returned to Slovenia.

While Rupnik has yet to publicly respond to the accusations leveled against him, criticism has been directed towards both the Jesuits and the Vatican’s doctrinal department for their handling of the case. Under media pressure last year, the Jesuit order acknowledged that the Vatican had conducted an investigation into Rupnik’s conduct and concluded that certain allegations were beyond the statute of limitations.

The reopening of the case and the removal of the statute of limitations implies that Rupnik may ultimately be removed from the priesthood, a process referred to as defrocking. The pope’s actions signal his commitment to addressing allegations of abuse and ensuring accountability within the Catholic Church.

Philip Pullella reporting; Hugh Lawson editing.