A few hours ago, the Vatican announced the opening of a canonical trial against former Jesuit Marko Rupnik, who has been accused of sexual, spiritual, and psychological abuse by more than twenty women. The Holy See appointed a special panel of judges, made up of both priests and laypeople, to ensure a transparent and independent process.
Marko, renowned for his large mosaics adorning churches around the world, was expelled from the Society of Jesus in 2023 following a wave of allegations that shook the Catholic Church.
¿Why did the Vatican decide to act only now?
Pope Francis lifted the statute of limitations that had protected the case, allowing the trial to proceed. This decision reflects the Vatican’s effort to demonstrate greater firmness in addressing abuse within the Church and to respond to growing public and victim pressure.
The trial against Rupnik could become a key moment for the institution’s credibility and its commitment to accountability.
