Pope Leo XIV’s Mixed Legacy on Sexual Abuse in the Catholic Church

An investigation reveals the duality in Pope Leo XIV’s approach to handling sexual abuse allegations during his time as a bishop, showcasing a commitment to some victims while failing others.

Sexual abuse scandals have long plagued the Catholic Church, with numerous priests worldwide facing accusations of abusing children, leading to widespread criticism of the Church's inadequate responses. As Pope Leo XIV steps into his role, a significant aspect of his papacy will hinge on addressing these pressing issues.

To gauge his potential approach, a recent investigation by a team of New York Times reporters delved into two distinct sex abuse cases in Chiclayo, Peru, where he served as bishop from 2015 to 2023. The findings highlighted a striking contrast in his handling of these cases. In one instance, then-Bishop Robert Prevost showed strong advocacy for victims, decisively opposing established church figures while pursuing justice for survivors of the Sodalitium Christianae Vitae, a notorious Catholic movement linked to the abuse of minors.

Conversely, in another case, the Pope is facing accusations from victims and advocates claiming he fell short in adequately investigating allegations made by three women who reported childhood abuse by priests. The investigation uncovered alarming details, revealing that during Leo’s tenure as bishop, at least two accused priests continued their clerical duties amid ongoing investigations. Furthermore, a priest appointed by Prevost to assist victims reportedly discouraged them, suggesting their abuse had not risen to the level of serious offenses.

As Pope Leo XIV's papacy unfolds, the Church’s ability to rebuild trust among its followers may very well depend on how he chooses to confront the legacy of these abuse cases.