Pope Francis has taken a rare and decisive step by dissolving the Sodalitium Christianae Vitae, a once-influential Catholic group in Peru, following a damning investigation that revealed numerous abuses. Founded in 1971, the Sodalitium had grown to prominence as a "Society of Apostolic Life of Pontifical Right" before a Vatican probe in 2023 uncovered "sadistic" abuses of power, authority, and spirituality. This decision marks a significant point in the ongoing efforts to address misconduct within religious organizations.
The Sodalitium Christianae Vitae wielded considerable influence in Peru, primarily by recruiting young white boys from elite Catholic schools and families of the upper and middle class. The group's ideology was a controversial amalgamation of Catholic religion with Spanish fascist ideas, positioning itself as a political counter to the liberation theology movement that emerged in Latin America during the 1960s. Liberation theology sought to empower the poor and promote social justice, which clashed with the Sodalitium's politically driven motives.
The group's founder, Luis Fernando Figari, became a central figure in the scandal after being accused of sodomizing recruits and engaging in severe financial mismanagement. A 2017 investigation portrayed Figari as "vulgar, vindictive, manipulative, racist, sexist, elitist, and obsessed with sexual issues." At its height, the Sodalitium claimed around 20,000 members across South America and parts of the United States, reflecting its extensive reach and influence.
The group's dark underbelly was first exposed to the public in 2015 with the publication of "Half Monks, Half Soldiers," a book co-authored by one of the victims, Pedro Salinas, and journalist Paola Ugaz. This revelation prompted further scrutiny and ultimately led to the Vatican's comprehensive investigation. In August 2024, Pope Francis expelled Figari from the order, followed by the expulsion of 10 additional leading members in September 2024.
"Abuse in the exercise of the apostolate of journalism" – an unusual charge
This quote highlights one of the charges against the group, underscoring the gravity and uniqueness of their misconduct.
The pope's decision to dissolve the Sodalitium is a rare occurrence, reflecting the severity of the abuses committed by its members. The dissolution serves as a stern message that such behaviors will not be tolerated within the Catholic Church. It also highlights Pope Francis's commitment to addressing and rectifying instances of misconduct that tarnish the church's reputation.
