Pope Francis is leading the Catholic Church in tackling a controversial issue: whether “spiritual abuse” should be recognized as a formal crime under Church law. This move aims to stop priests from using supposed mystical or supernatural experiences to control or harm others.
Last week, Cardinal Victor Fernandez, head of the Vatican’s doctrinal department, met with Pope Francis to discuss this sensitive topic. Following their conversation, the Pope asked Fernandez to work with another Vatican office to study the issue further. Their goal? To decide if spiritual abuse should become a specific crime in Church law rather than just an added factor in other types of abuse cases.
The Vatican’s doctrinal department released a statement highlighting the seriousness of the issue. It noted that priests who claim to have special mystical powers or divine experiences and use them to manipulate or abuse others are committing acts of “particular moral gravity.” The Church’s updated rules from May already touch on this issue, but this new initiative could take things a step further, offering a clear and strong stance.
The Church’s Troubled Past
Although the Vatican didn’t name specific cases in their statement, scandals involving priests using “spiritual authority” to abuse others have plagued the Church for years. These stories are often heartbreaking and highlight the need for reform.
One of the most infamous cases involves Reverend Marko Rupnik, a celebrated artist and former leader of a spiritual community in Rome. Over three decades, Rupnik is accused of sexually, spiritually, and psychologically abusing around two dozen women and at least one man. One alleged victim revealed that Rupnik manipulated her into engaging in sexual acts, claiming it was a way to honor the Holy Trinity. Despite the disturbing allegations, Rupnik has denied any wrongdoing.
Another case took place in Ohio, where Father David Morrier, a chaplain at Franciscan University, admitted to sexually abusing a student. The victim said Morrier used “exorcisms” and “deliverance sessions” as a way to justify his actions. Shockingly, instead of facing rape charges, Morrier received only five years’ probation under a plea deal.
A Step Toward Justice?
For years, canon lawyers and Church officials have debated the idea of “spiritual abuse” and whether it deserves its own category in Church law. Pope Francis’ latest move suggests that the Vatican is ready to take this debate seriously. By formally defining and punishing spiritual abuse, the Church could send a powerful message that no one—no matter how “holy” they claim to be—can manipulate others under the guise of faith.
This initiative, while still in its early stages, represents an important moment for the Catholic Church. Will it lead to real change, justice for victims, and accountability for those who exploit their spiritual authority? The world is watching as the Vatican considers this groundbreaking move.
