Sexual abuse has long cast a shadow over the Catholic Church, stirring debate as to how the institution has responded to such allegations. With the election of Pope Leo XIV as the new leader of over 1.4 billion Catholics worldwide, his past decisions will significantly impact the Church's efforts to regain trust.
A New York Times investigation explored Leo’s tenure as Bishop Robert Prevost in Chiclayo, Peru, between 2015 and 2023, uncovering two notably different handling of abuse cases. In one instance, Leo vigorously defended victims against the Sodalitium Christianae Vitae, a controversial Catholic group implicated in abuse. His proactive stance raised hopes for justice among the victims. However, in a different case, he is criticized for neglecting to thoroughly investigate abuse claims made by three women, leaving them without adequate support.
The findings reveal that while functioning as bishop, several priests accused of child abuse were permitted to continue their ministry, and a priest appointed to assist victims suggested their cases lacked “sufficient severity” for accountability. These findings pose questions about the direction Leo XIV may take as he leads the Catholic Church in confronting its legacy on abuse. Will he prioritize support and accountability, or will history repeat itself? The eyes of the world are watching closely.
