The participation of Cardinal Roger M. Mahony, linked to priest abuse cover-ups, in Pope Francis' funeral has ignited public outcry and raised ethical questions.
Cardinal Mahony's Involvement in Pope Francis’ Funeral Sparks Controversy
Cardinal Mahony's Involvement in Pope Francis’ Funeral Sparks Controversy
Accused Cardinal to Play Prominent Role at Vatican Ceremonies Amid Criticism
Cardinal Roger M. Mahony, a figure embroiled in controversies regarding sexual abuse cover-ups as former archbishop of Los Angeles, is set to have a significant role during the funeral ceremonies of Pope Francis. His inclusion has sparked renewed discussions surrounding his legacy, particularly in light of past allegations that he concealed cases of abuse within the clergy.
At 89, Mahony is expected to participate in the closing of Pope Francis' casket at St. Peter’s Basilica and his burial at the Papal Basilica of Santa Maria Maggiore, scheduled for this weekend. According to a briefing from Vatican spokesman Matteo Bruni, the invitation for cardinals to partake in the ceremonies was largely based on seniority.
Mahony served as the archbishop of Los Angeles from 1985 until he stepped down from his official duties in 2011. His tenure came under scrutiny when internal church documents released during a civil case in 2013 revealed his involvement in efforts to shield abusive priests from repercussions and to keep evidence of their offenses from law enforcement. Notably, the Archdiocese of Los Angeles, the largest archdiocese in the United States, was found to have relocated priests accused of child molestation to evade legal reporting obligations.
Over time, these revelations have led to massive financial settlements; in 2007, the archdiocese agreed to a $660 million settlement in a case involving over 500 victims and settled for an additional $880 million last year to resolve claims from 1,353 individuals, marking one of the largest payouts in the history of priest sexual abuse cases.
Mahony's official role at Pope Francis' funeral has raised questions among advocates for abuse survivors, who are concerned that honoring someone with such a controversial past undermines the church's message about addressing sexual abuse within its ranks. As the ceremony approaches, the legacy of both Mahony and Pope Francis continues to be scrutinized amidst ongoing discussions about accountability within the Catholic Church.
At 89, Mahony is expected to participate in the closing of Pope Francis' casket at St. Peter’s Basilica and his burial at the Papal Basilica of Santa Maria Maggiore, scheduled for this weekend. According to a briefing from Vatican spokesman Matteo Bruni, the invitation for cardinals to partake in the ceremonies was largely based on seniority.
Mahony served as the archbishop of Los Angeles from 1985 until he stepped down from his official duties in 2011. His tenure came under scrutiny when internal church documents released during a civil case in 2013 revealed his involvement in efforts to shield abusive priests from repercussions and to keep evidence of their offenses from law enforcement. Notably, the Archdiocese of Los Angeles, the largest archdiocese in the United States, was found to have relocated priests accused of child molestation to evade legal reporting obligations.
Over time, these revelations have led to massive financial settlements; in 2007, the archdiocese agreed to a $660 million settlement in a case involving over 500 victims and settled for an additional $880 million last year to resolve claims from 1,353 individuals, marking one of the largest payouts in the history of priest sexual abuse cases.
Mahony's official role at Pope Francis' funeral has raised questions among advocates for abuse survivors, who are concerned that honoring someone with such a controversial past undermines the church's message about addressing sexual abuse within its ranks. As the ceremony approaches, the legacy of both Mahony and Pope Francis continues to be scrutinized amidst ongoing discussions about accountability within the Catholic Church.
