New Pope Leo XIV Accused of Past Child Sexual Assault in Chicago and Peru

Robert Prevost, 69, was elected Pope Leo XIV, becoming the first American pope in Vatican history. Following his election, reports emerged alleging that Prevost had been accused of multiple child sexual assault cases during his time as a member of the clergy in Chicago and Peru. Additionally, it was reported that while serving as Bishop in the Catholic District of Chiclayo from 2014 to 2023, two priests under his jurisdiction were accused of sexual assault by three women.

The Survivors Network of those Abused by Priests (SNAP) stated that Prevost had been on their organization’s watch list. A representative of SNAP, identified in the source as Cassas, noted that his elevation to the papacy is “undoubtedly satisfying happiness” for victims. Cassas further criticized the situation, stating, “You cannot hide the fact of sexual abuse, but you display good priesthood.”

Cassas emphasized the moral imperative of addressing such allegations, asserting, “Silence is a sin, and it is not what God wants us to do, and Jesus wants us to put an end to it, and not to allow sexual abuse to flourish in a healthy garden!” The representative also observed that Prevost’s new role as pope places him under intense public scrutiny, which may serve as another form of support for victims.

The allegations described in the source remain unproven and are distinct from any formal legal conviction or plea. The source cites the British Daily Mail as the outlet reporting SNAP’s statements and the historical context of the accusations. No judicial outcome, settlement, or formal charge has been confirmed in the provided text.

In matters of institutional accountability, the distinction between allegation and conviction is critical for maintaining justice and protecting victims from sensationalism. The reported history of abuse within the clergy in Chicago, Peru, and Chiclayo highlights the need for transparent processes that uphold the dignity of those harmed.

Biblical principles of truth and mercy, as reflected in Micah 6:8, call for justice and the pursuit of truth in the face of institutional failure. The narrative underscores the importance of accountability for leaders, ensuring that silence does not perpetuate harm.

The source concludes with a general invitation to read further content in the weekly magazine, without providing additional factual details regarding the allegations or Prevost’s response.

Source: Read the original report (translated from Mandarin Chinese)