Pope Leo XIV Faces Scrutiny Over Past Handling of Clergy Abuse Cases

Pope Leo XIV, formerly Cardinal Robert Prevost, is under scrutiny for his management of clergy sexual abuse allegations during his tenure in Chicago and Peru.  Advocacy groups, including the Survivors Network of those Abused by Priests (SNAP), have raised concerns about his past decisions, particularly regarding the supervision and housing of priests accused of abuse. 

In Chicago, Prevost allowed Father James Ray, a priest previously restricted from public ministry due to abuse allegations, to reside at an Augustinian friary near an elementary school.  Critics argue that this decision endangered children's safety, although the Archdiocese of Chicago held ultimate responsibility for Ray, and there was no legal obligation to inform the public about his residence. 

In Peru, as bishop of Chiclayo, Prevost faced criticism for allegedly inadequate responses to abuse allegations against priests.  In one instance, three women reported abuse dating back to 2007, claiming that Prevost failed to initiate proper investigations and allowed the accused priests to continue their duties.  While some sources suggest that Prevost forwarded complaints to the Vatican, victims contend that the investigations were dismissed due to lack of evidence or expired statutes of limitations. 

SNAP and other survivor advocacy organizations have expressed grave concerns over Pope Leo XIV's election, citing his past handling of abuse cases as indicative of a broader issue within the Church's approach to such matters.  They are calling for comprehensive reforms, including a global zero-tolerance policy for abusive clergy, the establishment of a truth commission, survivor reparations, and full transparency from the Church. 

The Vatican and diocesan authorities have largely defended Pope Leo XIV, asserting that he adhered to Church procedures and protocols in handling abuse allegations.  They emphasize that he has not been directly accused of abuse or of knowingly retaining abusers in ministry. 

As Pope Leo XIV begins his papacy, his approach to addressing these concerns and implementing reforms will be closely watched by both advocates and the broader Catholic community.