LIMA, Peru (AP) – In a landmark statement, Pope Leo XIV declared that the Catholic Church must have zero tolerance for all forms of abuse—including sexual, spiritual, and abuse of authority. In a written message addressed to Peruvian journalist Paola Ugaz, who has extensively documented cases of abuse and financial corruption within the Catholic movement known as Sodalitium Christianae Vitae, Leo emphasized the need for "transparent processes" to foster a culture of prevention within the Church.

Leo's remarks came during a performance in Lima that was inspired by the Sodalitium scandal and highlighted Ugaz's investigative work. In his message, which was read aloud at the event, Leo stated, "It is urgent to root in the whole church a culture of prevention that does not tolerate any form of abuse—neither of power or authority, nor abuse of conscience, spiritual or sexual abuse." He underscored the importance of vigilance and open dialogue with victims, remarking, "For this, we need journalists."

The Pope's familiarity with the Sodalitium scandal is significant, as he spent two decades in Peru as a missionary priest and bishop. His predecessor, Bishop Robert Prevost, played a pivotal role in listening to the victims of Sodalitium and aided some in securing financial settlements with the organization. After being appointed by Pope Francis to the Vatican in 2023, Prevost was instrumental in dismantling Sodalitium, overseeing the resignation of a key bishop and ultimately leading to the group's official suppression earlier in the year, shortly before Francis's death.

Now, with Leo at the helm, the task involves managing the disbandment of Sodalitium and its substantial assets. Monsignor Jordi Bertomeu, the Vatican envoy tasked with this responsibility, read Leo's message during the event, appearing alongside Ugaz on stage. Furthermore, Leo recognized journalists for their bravery in investigating and exposing corruption, asserting that a free press is a "common good that cannot be renounced."

Both Ugaz and survivor Pedro Salinas have endured prolonged legal battles instigated by Sodalitium and its affiliates in response to their reports about the organization's unethical practices and financial impropriety. They have publicly commended Leo's proactive stance in addressing these issues.

The abuse scandal poses a formidable challenge for Pope Leo XIV, particularly as survivors are urging him to adopt an even stricter zero-tolerance policy than that implemented by Francis. This includes calls for accountability for abusers, irrespective of whether their victims were adults. The Church faces increasing scrutiny, and the stakes are profoundly high as Leo navigates these sensitive issues amidst calls for reform.