Pope Francis has taken the unprecedented step of dissolving the Sodalitium Christianae Vitae, a prominent Peruvian Catholic group, following a comprehensive investigation into allegations of severe abuses. Founded in 1971 as a lay group, the Sodalitium drew significant influence by recruiting young boys from elite Catholic schools and affluent families. The decision to dissolve this influential entity marks a rare papal intervention aimed at addressing systemic abuse within the Catholic Church.
The Sodalitium was initially recognized as a "Society of Apostolic Life of Pontifical Right," granting it considerable sway in religious and social spheres. However, its controversial ideology combined Catholic teachings with Spanish fascist ideas, positioning itself as a counterforce to the liberation theology movement that emerged in Latin America during the 1960s. Liberation theology, known for its emphasis on aiding the impoverished, clashed with the politically driven motives of the Sodalitium.
Luis Fernando Figari, the group's founder, faced numerous accusations, including allegations of sodomizing recruits. A 2017 investigation unveiled Figari's troubling characteristics, describing him as "vulgar, vindictive, manipulative, racist, sexist, elitist, and obsessed with sexual issues." At its peak, the Sodalitium boasted a membership of 20,000 across South America and parts of the United States. Its influence and reach were substantial until the release of "Half Monks, Half Soldiers" in 2015. The book, authored by victim Pedro Salinas and journalist Paola Ugaz, exposed the group's disturbing practices.
A Vatican probe led by Archbishop Charles Scicluna and Monsignor Jordi Bertomeu corroborated these allegations, uncovering "sadistic" abuses of power, authority, and spirituality within the organization. Following these findings, Pope Francis expelled Figari from the order in August 2024. Subsequently, in September 2024, ten more leading members faced expulsion as part of the Church's efforts to address these grave transgressions.
The Sodalitium confirmed its dissolution in a statement, acknowledging the pope's decision. However, the Vatican has yet to release an official comment on the matter. The dissolution underscores the seriousness of the charges and reflects Pope Francis's commitment to eradicating abuse within religious communities.
"Half Monks, Half Soldiers" – a 2015 book written by Pedro Salinas and journalist Paola Ugaz
The allegations against the Sodalitium highlight an "abuse in the exercise of the apostolate of journalism," an unusual charge that emphasizes the group's manipulation of media narratives to suit its agenda. This charge further illuminates the extent of control exercised by the organization over its narrative and influence.
