Marko Rupnik, a 68-year-old Slovenian priest celebrated for his artistic gifts, left an enduring imprint on sacred spaces. His decorative works adorn major cathedrals and sanctuaries, including the Almudena Cathedral in Madrid and notable sites at Fátima and Lourdes, as well as within the Apostolic Palace in the Vatican. In the past year, a high-profile controversy emerged around him as dozens of nuns from a Jesuit community in Ljubljana publicly alleged sexual abuse and related spiritual and psychological harm. The alleged misconduct is said to trace back to the 1990s. The case drew global attention, with initial responses from the Vatican and the papacy appearing muted at first, before prompting renewed scrutiny. The matter has since evolved with a stronger emphasis on accountability and transparency within church structures (Vatican sources; international media coverage).
In a surprising development, the Vatican signaled a reassessment of the case, indicating that previously silenced litigation would be reopened because the facts had not been fully settled. The Pope reportedly supported re-examining the case and even urged the possible removal of prescription terms that could bar future proceedings. It emerged that while Rupnik’s religious order, the Jesuits, had removed him from their community, the bishopric of Koper in Rupnik’s homeland later readmitted him. These moves sparked discussions about how diocesan and religious orders coordinate on accountability and discipline (official Vatican statements; diocesan communications).
The Vatican noted that the decision stemmed from guidance provided by a Vatican body charged with overseeing such matters. The Pontifical Commission for the Protection of Minors informed the Pope in September that an incident had occurred and highlighted concerns about how the case had been managed. The Vatican stressed a lack of closeness to victims as part of the critique and underscored the need for stronger pastoral care and oversight within the church (statements from the Pontifical Commission; Vatican briefings).
Prescriptions
In response, Pope Francis asked the Dicastery for the Doctrine of the Faith to review the case and, crucially, to consider lifting prescription constraints to permit a formal process to begin. The memo emphasized that the church should listen to those who suffer and feel marginalized by the Catholic community, echoing broader conversations happening within the global synodal process (Vatican communications; synod reflections).
The Rupnik case unfolds amid a wider strain within Slovenian religious life. Reports describe tension among local clergy, bishops, and women’s groups, with ongoing discussions about how the church addresses past and present complaints. Observers monitor how church leadership balances tradition with accountability and reform, watching closely as procedures, investigations, and restorative options for those affected unfold (regional church reports; expert commentary).
Rupnik’s case holds particular significance for the Jesuit order, which has faced questions about governance and the handling of allegations. Critics point to a history of rapid actions in some cases and slower responses in others, raising questions about consistency and due process. In this national and international context, the scene remains charged as church leaders navigate procedures, investigations, and potential restorative measures for those harmed and affected by the situation (Jesuit conference statements; independent analyses).