Pope’s Dilemma: A Look into the Sodalitium Scandal
In recent months, Pope Leo XIV has found himself facing increasing scrutiny regarding his past handling of sexual abuse cases within the clergy. A core concern has emerged from the victims of the Sodalitium Christianae Vitae, a once-powerful Catholic organization that he played a key role in dismantling.
The Sodalitium, founded in Peru in 1971 by layman Luis Fernando Figari, aimed to create a community of "soldiers for God." This group emerged as a conservative pushback against the left-leaning liberation theology that was gaining traction in Latin America during the 1960s. At its peak, it boasted around 1,000 core members and many more across South America and the United States, particularly in Denver.
Reports of Figari’s abusive practices began surfacing in the early 2000s. Although a formal complaint was made to the Lima archdiocese in 2011, significant action was delayed until former members, Pedro Salinas and journalist Paola Ugaz, brought attention to the group’s abuses in their 2015 book, "Half Monks, Half Soldiers."
A 2017 report revealed shocking details of Figari’s behavior, with allegations that he abused and humiliated his recruits to exert control. Many former members expressed frustration over the lack of response from church authorities when they sought help.
One figure who did take action was Robert Prevost, who became bishop of Chiclayo, Peru, in 2014. Victims credit him with listening to their concerns, unlike many within the church hierarchy. Prevost not only pushed for reparations but also became a crucial link between victims and the Vatican.
José Rey de Castro, once Figari’s personal cook, praised Prevost for his willingness to listen. Following a meeting in 2021, Prevost facilitated a confidential settlement with the Sodalitium, which addressed previous monetary reparations that were seen as insufficient.
As investigations intensified, Prevost also defended journalists like Salinas and Ugaz, who faced legal threats from the Sodalitium for their reporting. His support helped them secure a meeting with Pope Francis in November 2022, leading to an official investigation into the group.
This inquiry culminated in significant changes, including the resignation and expulsion of key figures involved in the Sodalitium and the eventual dissolution of the organization in April of this year. The Sodalitium accepted this fate and expressed remorse for the suffering they caused.
However, Prevost now faces criticism himself. A recent podcast highlighted concerns regarding how he handled past abuse allegations, suggesting that opposition stems from those loyal to the Sodalitium. Despite this, both the diocese and the Vatican have maintained that Prevost acted appropriately in various cases brought to his attention.
As the media continues to scrutinize these events, the need for accountability within the church remains a pressing issue. The call for transparency and justice highlights a broader discussion about the role of authority and oversight in religious institutions, especially as they navigate the complexities of faith and morality.
