Context:

Pope Leo XIV, formerly Bishop Robert Prevost, exhibited contrasting approaches to handling sexual abuse cases during his tenure in Chiclayo, Peru. In one case, he supported victims of the Sodalitium Christianae Vitae movement, advocating for their justice and contributing to the movement's eventual disbandment. Conversely, he is criticized for insufficiently addressing allegations made by three women against priests, where investigations appeared inadequate and accused priests continued their clergy duties. These inconsistencies raise concerns about his commitment to ensuring accountability and protecting victims. The findings highlight the complexities Leo XIV may face as he leads the Catholic Church amid ongoing scrutiny over its handling of abuse cases.

Dive Deeper:

• Pope Leo XIV supported victims of Sodalitium Christianae Vitae, a cultlike Catholic movement in Peru, by clashing with powerful Catholic figures and aiding victims in securing mental health counseling and financial settlements. This advocacy contributed to the disbandment of the movement and earned him praise from victims.

• In contrast, his handling of allegations by three women against priests in Chiclayo was criticized for a lack of thorough investigation, leading to continued clergy work by the accused priests during the inquiry. This has raised questions about the effectiveness of his oversight and accountability measures.

• The investigation by The Times revealed that priests accused of abuse continued their duties, sometimes involving children, during ongoing investigations, which suggested a lack of rigorous enforcement of restrictions on their clerical activities.

• Bishop Prevost's approach in the Sodalitium case was seen as a positive deviation from the norm, given the historical tendency of senior clergy in Peru to overlook or dismiss abuse claims against the movement.

• The Vatican's spokesman claimed that Prevost's investigation into the Chiclayo case exceeded requirements, but social media evidence contradicted official claims about the restrictions placed on the accused priests, undermining the credibility of the investigation's outcomes.

• The divergent outcomes of these two cases under Prevost's leadership reflect broader challenges within the Catholic Church in dealing with abuse claims and maintaining public trust.

• As Pope Leo XIV, his previous actions in Chiclayo will significantly influence perceptions of his papacy, especially regarding his commitment to addressing sexual abuse within the Church.