As Cardinal Robert Francis Prevost becomes the newly elected Pope Leo XIV, the world celebrates a historic moment, but not without raising serious concerns. A prominent group representing survivors of clergy sexual abuse, SNAP (Survivors Network of those Abused by Priests), has expressed deep worry over Pope Leo XIV’s past response to abuse cases and is calling for stronger action to protect victims.
Prevost, a Chicago-born missionary and bishop who spent much of his career in Peru, was selected as pope on May 8, becoming a leader with dual U.S.-Peruvian citizenship. While he has been praised for his work with victims in South America, his record in both the United States and Peru has drawn scrutiny.
Concerns Over Past Abuse Cases
SNAP issued a statement urging Pope Leo XIV to enforce a universal zero-tolerance policy on sexual abuse and cover-ups within the Church. The group pointed to several past incidents where Prevost was allegedly slow or ineffective in responding to abuse allegations:
- In Chicago (2000), a priest named James Ray, previously accused of child abuse, was allowed to stay in a monastery near a school. Church officials reportedly didn’t inform the school or local community.
- In Chiclayo, Peru (2022), three women claimed they were abused by priests when they were minors. The women say Prevost failed to conduct a proper investigation or take precautionary steps.
Although the Vatican has denied any wrongdoing by Prevost, these incidents continue to raise concerns about accountability and transparency.
Efforts in South America
Despite the criticism, Pope Leo XIV is also being recognized for his role in dismantling a deeply abusive religious group in Peru. He helped shut down the Sodalitium of Christian Life, an ultra-conservative movement exposed for years of abuse, corruption, and violence, including against minors.
This move was seen as a rare and decisive action in Church history. Pedro Salinas, the journalist who first uncovered the group’s abuses, called Prevost’s involvement “extremely important.” Even Pope Francis, shortly before his death, supported the closure and met with a key survivor.
Public Statements and Future Expectations
In interviews and public statements, Pope Leo XIV has called for more transparency within the Church and urged survivors to speak out. He denounced secrecy and cover-ups, stating that such practices do great harm.
“We reject the cover-up and secrecy. If anyone has suffered abuse, they should come forward. The Church must act in their defense,” he told a Peruvian newspaper in 2019.
Many are hopeful that as pope, Leo XIV will build on his past efforts and take stronger steps to end abuse and support survivors. However, groups like SNAP continue to watch closely, urging him to go beyond words and take lasting action.
