Amidst allegations of sexual misconduct against Jesuit artist Father Marko Rupnik, the vibrant mosaics that once adorned shrines and churches are now causing a stir within the Church community.
Critics argue that the artworks, known for their bold and colorful depictions, are profaning the sacred spaces they inhabit.
Outcry Over the Presence of Rupnik’s Art
Anne Barrett Doyle, co-director of an organization monitoring clergy abuse, strongly criticizes the John Paul II Shrine for not removing Rupnik’s mosaics, deeming it a shallow commitment to healing abuse victims.
According to Doyle, Rupnik’s art now desecrates the sacred places it adorns, with allegations suggesting that the artist used his victims as models for some of his pieces.
Advocacy for the Victims’ Perspective
Doyle contends that the victims of Rupnik should have a say in the future of his art.
While some argue against removing the artwork based on the artist’s sinful life, Doyle dismisses this as a “bogus argument,” emphasizing the living perpetrator and his numerous victims.
She asserts that the presence of Rupnik’s art in places of worship is an insult to faith and calls for its removal to restore the sanctity of these spaces.
Silent Church: Lack of Plans Sparks Outrage
Critics, including Tim Law of Ending Clergy Abuse, express disbelief at the absence of a public plan to remove Rupnik’s mosaics from the St. John Paul II National Shrine.
They argue that the Church’s handling of the case perpetuates a culture of cover-ups, sending a horrific message to the American faithful.
Trauma and Retraumatization: Priest Advocates for Mosaics’ Removal
Father Paul Hedman, a priest in the Archdiocese of St. Paul-Minneapolis, emphasizes the inherent connection between Rupnik’s art and abuse.
He advocates for the removal of the mosaics to protect the victims from potential retraumatization, asserting that the Church’s refusal to take down the art implies a lack of seriousness in addressing abuse.
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