ROME (AP/The Guardian) — In a significant move, Pope Francis has dissolved the Sodalitium Christianae Vitae, a Catholic movement based in Peru, after a prolonged investigation that revealed disturbing cases of sexual abuse, financial mismanagement, and spiritual misconduct within its leadership. The announcement was made during an assembly in Aparecida, Brazil, by Cardinal Gianfranco Ghirlanda, the pope's principal legal adviser, and confirmed by the movement itself on Monday.

The Associated Press reported that the members expressed their disappointment over the leaking of this critical news by two expelled members attending the assembly, which the group described as containing “several inaccuracies,” without elaborating further. Such a dissolution of a pontifically recognized religious movement is unprecedented and underscores the gravity of the findings.

The Sodalitium was founded in 1971 as part of a conservative reaction against the liberation theology movement that gained traction in Latin America. At its peak, the organization boasted approximately 20,000 members across South America and the United States, wielding significant influence in Peru.

However, allegations against its founder, Luis Figari, began surfacing as early as 2000, with former members reporting extensive abuses to the Lima archdiocese. A crucial turning point occurred in 2015 when Pedro Salinas, a victim, published a revealing book titled Half Monks, Half Soldiers, detailing the abusive practices within the organization. Following this, a 2017 internal report confirmed that Figari had subjected young recruits to severe forms of psychological and sexual exploitation.

Pope Francis initiated further investigations led by Archbishop Charles Scicluna and Monsignor Jordi Bertomeu, uncovering what the report characterized as "sadistic" sect-like abuses of power and authority, alongside other severe management issues. This led to the expulsion of Figari and ten other key members last year.

Pedro Salinas hailed the pope's decision as “extraordinary” but lamented the long delay in addressing the abuses that had begun over two decades prior. He commended those involved in the investigation, including current prefect Sister Simona Brambilla, and noted the complicity of various Peruvian authorities who had historically ignored the claims.

While the church hierarchy has taken decisive measures, questions remain regarding the future of the Sodalitium’s assets, particularly as victims seek reparations for their suffering. It is essential to note that, under canon law, decisions regarding the temporal goods of the dissolved institute rest solely with the Apostolic See.

This unprecedented action by Pope Francis is part of a broader effort to restore faith in the Catholic Church and combat the deep-rooted issues of abuse and institutional cover-up, marking a pivotal moment in the ongoing struggle for justice within the Church.

For more details, view the full reports from Associated Press and The Guardian.