Relics of Martyrs, Allegations, and Papal Intervention – The Complex Case of Father Marko Rupnik

Martyrs’ Relics:

Under the altar, the relics of two martyrs, St. Pedro Poveda, and St. José Sánchez del Río, are preserved.

Poveda, founder of the Teresian Institution, was martyred during the 1930s religious persecution in Spain.

Sánchez del Río, a 14-year-old boy, was fatally stabbed during the 1928 Cristero War, both victims of faith-based hatred.

The Rupnik Case – Artistic Renown and Allegations:

Father Marko Rupnik, renowned for his artistic mosaic work found in significant locations worldwide, faced allegations of sexual and theological abuse since 2018.

Founder of the Loyola Community of Slovenia in the 1980s, he severed ties in 1993.

Investigations and Jesuit Actions:

In June 2019, the Jesuits imposed unspecified restrictions on Rupnik, followed by an investigation request from the Dicastery for the Doctrine of the Faith.

By May 2020, Rupnik faced automatic excommunication, later lifted by Vatican authorities.

Subsequently, the Vatican requested a Jesuit investigation, and in January 2022, it was deemed worthy of a criminal proceeding but later considered beyond the statute of limitations in October.

Ongoing Allegations and Restrictions:

In February 2023, new complaints from 15 women led to additional restrictions by the Jesuits.

On June 15, 2023, Rupnik was expelled from the Jesuits for disobedience and later incardinated into the Diocese of Koper in Slovenia.

In December, the Loyola Community was dissolved.

Papal Intervention and Statute of Limitations Lifted:

In September 2023, Pope Francis, informed by the Pontifical Commission for the Protection of Minors, decided to lift the statute of limitations on Rupnik’s case.

This decision came after concerns about the handling of the case and lack of attention to victims.

The Holy Father authorized a trial to address the serious problems raised.

Conclusion – Ongoing Legal Proceedings:

The complex case of Father Marko Rupnik involves a history of investigations, restrictions, and allegations, culminating in papal intervention to lift the statute of limitations.

Ongoing legal proceedings aim to address the multifaceted issues surrounding this once-revered Jesuit priest.

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