End of an era: Sodalitium Christianae Vitae is dissolved

End of an era: Sodalitium Christianae Vitae is dissolved

The resolution of the "Sodalicio" movement by the Vatican gives hope

The Catholic Community "Sodalitium Christianae Vitae", also known as "Sodalicio", has made headlines in the past few days by the decision of the Vatican to dissolve both its male and female branch. This measure comes due to serious allegations that have been burdening the community for years. This includes in particular cases of sexual abuse, physical abuse, as well as power and spiritual abuse.

founded in the 1970s by Luis Fernando Figari in Peru, "Sodalicio" was one of the most controversial movements within the Catholic Church. The community understood itself in response to liberation theology, which was considered too politically and left -wing. At the beginning of the 1990s, the community received official recognition by Pope John Paul II, which did not protect its behavioral tactics and internal structures from the numerous allegations.

First reports of abuse within the community were brought to light around the turn of the millennium by the theologian Rocío Figueroa. Her attempt to show the grievances was suppressed for a long time by the pressure of the community. It took until 2010 to create a comprehensive report on the incidents, which called several victims and perpetrators. The constant cover -up and the silence within the community raise serious ethical questions.

The criticism of "Sodalicio" has increased since 2015 when a revelation book published new allegations against Figari. Thereupon a comprehensive examination of the Vatican, which finally led to the exclusion of the founder and other prominent members. The reactions of the community to these decisions were perceived as inadequate, especially if they represented the integration of such measures as a gift to the victims.

Another important point remains the clarification of the whereabouts of the extensive financial resources of "Sodalicio". However, the rapid process of dissolution in less than a year has hope that the Vatican could continue to act against other problematic spiritual movements in the future in order to protect the credibility and integrity of the Church.