Increased Reporting of Abuse and the New Pope’s Responsibility
Sexual abuse of nuns by priests is becoming less taboo within the Catholic Church, leading to more reports that the successor of Pope Francis will need to address. In 2019, Pope Francis opened “a first door” for nuns to speak out about sexual violence at an unprecedented summit. This resulted in measures such as lifting the papal secrecy, mandating reporting of any cases to hierarchy for both religious and laypeople, and creating listening platforms.
However, survivors believe the Vatican has fallen short, particularly by refusing to eliminate confessional secrecy. The new pope will be elected starting Wednesday in a conclave gathering 133 cardinals from around the world.
Urgent Action Needed
The slow progress is exemplified by the case of Marko Rupnik, an influential Slovenian priest known for his mosaics, accused of sexual and psychological abuse against several nuns in the early 1990s. The Vatican had closed the case, but under pressure from Francis, it was reopened in 2023, leading to a trial.
Laura Sgro, the Italian lawyer for five accusers, told AFP that nuns should be better protected “by states and canon law,” especially with an extension for filing complaints. She emphasized that the new pope must act “immediately.”
The Need for Greater Representation and Change
There are more nuns (559,228) than priests (128,559) worldwide, according to the Vatican. This reflects a hierarchical and male-dominated structure, as pointed out by Sister Marta Gadaleta, general secretary of the Augustinians, Servants of Jesus and Mary.
Pope Francis appointed a woman to lead one of the Vatican’s ministries for the first time in 2,000 years of Church history. However, many advocate for more space for women within the institution.
In January, Pope Francis called on the Church to “overcome” a “male-chauvinist” mindset, stressing that nuns should not be treated as servants.
Training and Promoting a Culture of Care
The International Union of Superiors General (UISG), representing 600,000 nuns globally, has taken significant steps since 2016. They encourage reporting of violence and organize awareness sessions. A joint commission with the Union of General Superiors (USG) was established in 2020 to foster “a culture of care and protection” within congregations.
Sister Veronique Margron, however, stresses that “we should not rely solely on the Vatican” to avoid falling into the ancient trap of expecting men to speak for change.
Key Questions and Answers
- What is the main issue? The increasing reports of sexual abuse of nuns by priests within the Catholic Church.
- What actions have been taken? Measures include lifting papal secrecy, mandatory reporting, and creating listening platforms.
- Why do survivors believe the Vatican’s response is insufficient? Their main concern is the refusal to eliminate confessional secrecy.
- What changes are advocated for within the Church? Greater representation of women and overcoming a hierarchical, male-dominated structure.
- What efforts are being made to address the issue? Training sessions, joint commissions promoting care and protection cultures, and encouraging reporting of violence.
