Pope Leo XIV’s election has reignited scrutiny over his past handling of clergy abuse cases, prompting survivor groups to demand sweeping reforms and accountability from the Vatican.
At a Glance
- Pope Leo XIV, formerly Cardinal Robert Prevost, is the first American Pope
- Critics cite his handling of abuse cases in Chicago and Peru
- Survivor groups demand a universal zero-tolerance policy
- The Vatican defends Prevost’s past record amid mounting pressure
- Calls for deeper transparency and church-wide reform are growing
Controversial Past Overshadows Historic Election
When Cardinal Robert Francis Prevost ascended to the papacy as Pope Leo XIV, history was made: for the first time, the Catholic Church was led by a pope from the United States. But instead of celebration, his rise has been met with sharp controversy. Prevost’s track record on clerical abuse cases—particularly during his time in Chicago and Peru—has drawn intense criticism from survivors and advocacy groups.
In Chicago, Prevost drew fire after allowing a priest with past abuse allegations to live near a Catholic school, raising serious concerns about transparency and judgment. As reported by the Chicago Sun-Times, the school was unaware of the priest’s history or proximity.
Watch a report: “How the new pope handled abuse claims in Chicago and Peru” – WBEZ.
Similarly, during his tenure as bishop of Chiclayo, Peru, allegations surfaced that Prevost failed to act decisively in cases involving two abusive priests. According to the Associated Press, civil authorities ultimately closed the cases due to statutes of limitations, but survivors described the church’s handling as indifferent and opaque.
Survivor Groups Demand Immediate Action
The Survivors Network of those Abused by Priests (SNAP) responded swiftly to the papal announcement, expressing “grave concern” and calling for a global zero-tolerance policy toward clerical abuse. SNAP urged Pope Leo XIV to champion a universal standard: immediate removal of abusive clergy, full cooperation with civil investigations, and reparations for survivors.
Anne Barrett Doyle of BishopAccountability.org echoed this call, saying the pope must “earn the trust of victims and their families” through transparency—not inherited goodwill.
Vatican Defends Prevost’s Record
Despite growing outrage, the Vatican has defended Pope Leo XIV, highlighting his role in dismantling Peru’s controversial Sodality of Christian Life—a lay Catholic group investigated for systemic abuse. Journalist Pedro Salinas, a key figure in uncovering the scandal, noted that Prevost played “an extremely important role” in supporting the victims and guiding the movement’s suppression, as reported by USA Today.
Supporters also cite Prevost’s work with the Augustinian order, where he implemented early abuse protocols. “Nothing is more important…than transparency,” said Rev. Tony Pizzo, describing Prevost’s pre-Vatican efforts to codify child protection measures, years ahead of universal mandates.
A Papacy at a Crossroads
As Pope Leo XIV steps into his unprecedented role, the burden of the Church’s past weighs heavily on his present. The survivors of clergy abuse—and a watching world—expect bold, systemic reform. Activists like Denise Buchanan and Peter Isely continue pressing for truth commissions and survivor-led reconciliation processes.
Whether Pope Leo XIV becomes a vessel for real change or a symbol of deferred justice will depend on what he does next. For millions affected by decades of abuse and cover-ups, promises are no longer enough.
