The Vatican is expected to formally suppress the Sodalitium Christianae Vitae, a Peruvian-based religious community, next week after a papally-ordered investigation and years of reform efforts.
Founded in 1971, the community began as a movement of consecrated laymen and priests aimed at evangelization. However, allegations of sexual, physical, and psychological abuse by its leaders have plagued the organization for decades. Pope Francis appointed Archbishop Charles Scicluna to investigate the community anew in July 2023, reportedly over charges of alleged financial misconduct among leaders.
The Vatican’s decision comes after a long history of attempts to reform the community, with high-ranking clerics being appointed to lead efforts. However, it is unclear whether the move will also impact the women’s community founded by Figari, which voted in 2022 to formally separate itself from the Sodalitium.
In recent years, Pope Francis has introduced policies aimed at more scrutiny during the founding of new religious orders and communities, following concerns about abuse or dysfunction within their ranks. The Vatican’s decision to suppress the Sodalitium Christianae Vitae marks a significant step in addressing these concerns.
The community was informed of the pending suppression during their assembly in Brazil last week, according to sources with knowledge of the process. Decrees of expulsion were reportedly issued by the Vatican’s Dicastery for Institutes of Consecrated Life and Societies of Apostolic Life, with the specific approval of Pope Francis.
As a result of the suppression, numerous former members have come forward alleging abuse, including Archbishop Jose Antonio Eguren, who was the former archbishop of Piura and Tumbes in Peru. The community has also issued statements acknowledging past abuses and cover-ups within their communities.
The Vatican’s decision is seen as a significant step towards addressing the issue of abuse and dysfunction within religious organizations, following a series of high-profile scandals in recent years.
Source: https://www.pillarcatholic.com/p/vatican-to-suppress-sodalitium-christianae