On April 11, the Dicastery for Institutes of Consecrated Life and Societies of Apostolic Life signed the decree suppressing the Sodalitium of Christian Life (SVC), a society of apostolic life under pontifical right founded in 1971 by Peruvian layman Luis Fernando Figari, currently removed from all functions and community residence by order of the Vatican.

The measure has been confirmed by the Dicastery itself and represents the canonical dissolution of a community that, despite its expansion in several countries in the Americas and Europe, has been marked by serious accusations of abuse of power, conscience, and sexual abuse, particularly against its founder. The process culminates a journey of discernment that began several years ago, which included an apostolic visit and various interventions by the Holy See.

The decree states that the decision was made “after a thorough evaluation of all the documentation,” which considered the founding elements of the society, the evolution of its structures, and the seriousness of the events that occurred. The Holy See expressed its gratitude for the availability of the Sodalitium members who collaborated in the process and indicates that those who wish to pursue consecrated life will be welcomed into other institutes or societies, in dialogue with their ecclesiastical superiors.

This decision is also part of Pope Francis’s efforts for greater transparency and accountability in ecclesial institutions, especially with regard to the handling of abuse cases and the accompaniment of victims.

The Sodalitium has been particularly influential in Peru in recent decades, with a strong presence in the educational, publishing, and youth sectors. His markedly conservative style and rigid governance structure came under increasing scrutiny following the allegations against Figari, which were eventually acknowledged by the Vatican.