Pope Francis lifted the statute of limitations in the case of Fr. Marko Rupnik to allow a canonical procedure to take place regarding allegations against the former Jesuit.

Pope Francis has asked the Dicastery for the Doctrine of the Faith to review the case of former Jesuit artist, Fr. Marko Rupnik, who was accused of psychological and sexual abuse by some consecrated women with whom he worked. He was expelled from the Society of Jesus in June.

A Holy See Press Office statement on Friday said, “In September, the Pontifical Commission for the Protection of Minors brought to the Pope’s attention that there were serious problems in the handling of the Fr. Marko Rupnik case and lack of outreach to victims.”

“Consequently,” it added, “the Holy Father asked the Dicastery for the Doctrine of the Faith to review the case, and decided to lift the statute of limitations to allow a process to take place.”

Protection Commission welcomes decision
Later on Friday, the Pontifical Commission for the Protection of Minors released a statement welcoming the Pope’s decision.

“As the Synod comes to a close, we repeat the important role that a culture of safeguarding should play in any theology of ministry, leadership or worship. The core of the Church’s mandate is to render everyone safe, to protect the vulnerable to whatever threatens them, and to lead them to the fullness of life known through God’s own promises,” said the Pontifical Commission’s statement.