The statement

From Vatican Information Service

Beginning in 1998, the Congregation for the Doctrine of the Faith received accusations, already partly made public, against Fr. Marcial Maciel Degollado, founder of the Congregation of the Legionaries of Christ, for crimes that fall under the exclusive competence of the congregation. In 2002, Fr. Maciel published a declaration denying the accusations and expressing his displeasure at the offence done him by certain former Legionaries of Christ. In 2005, by reason of his advanced age, Fr. Maciel retired from the office of superior general of the Congregation of the Legionaries of Christ.

"All these elements have been subject to a mature examination by the Congregation for the Doctrine of the Faith and - in accordance with the Motu Proprio 'Sacramentorum sanctitatis tutela,' promulgated on April 30 2001 by Servant of God John Paul II - the then prefect of the Congregation for the Doctrine of the Faith, Cardinal Joseph Ratzinger, authorized an investigation into the accusations. In the meantime, Pope John II died and Cardinal Ratzinger was elected as the new Pontiff.

"After having attentively studied the results of the investigation, the Congregation for the Doctrine of the Faith, under the guidance of the new prefect, Cardinal William Joseph Levada, decided - bearing in mind Fr. Maciel's advanced age and his delicate health - to forgo a canonical hearing and to invite the father to a reserved life of penitence and prayer, relinquishing any form of public ministry. The Holy Father approved these decisions.

"Independently of the person of the Founder, the worthy apostolate of the Legionaries of Christ and of the Association 'Regnum Christi' is gratefully recognized."

Original Italian after the jump.

The LC responds.

In reference to the news regarding the conclusion of the investigation of the accusations made against Fr. Marcial Maciel, our beloved father founder, the Congregation of the Legionaries of Christ offer the following statement:

1. Fr. Marcial Maciel has received during his life a great number of accusations. In the last few years, some of these were presented to the Holy See so that a canonical process would be opened.

2. Facing the accusations made against him, he declared his innocence and, following the example of Jesus Christ, decided not to defend himself in any way.

3. Considering his advanced age and his frail health, the Holy See has decided not to begin a canonical process but to "invite him to a reserved life of prayer and penance, renouncing to any public ministry".

4. Fr. Maciel, with the spirit of obedience to the Church that has always characterized him, he has accepted this communiqué with faith, complete serenity and tranquility of conscience, knowing that it is a new cross that God, the Father of Mercy, has allowed him to suffer and that will obtain many graces for the Legion of Christ and the Regnum Christi Movement.

5. The Legionaries of Christ and the members of the Regnum Christi, following the example of Fr. Maciel and united to him, accept and will accept always the directives of the Holy See with profound spirit of obedience and faith. We renew our commitment to work with great intensity to live our charism of charity and extend the Kingdom of Christ serving the Church.

---

In riferimento a notizie diffuse circa la persona del Fondatore dei Legionari di Cristo, il Rev.do P. Marcial Maciel Degollado, la Sala Stampa della Santa Sede comunica quanto segue:

A partire dal 1998, la Congregazione per la Dottrina della Fede ricevette accuse, già in parte rese pubbliche, contro il Rev.do Marcial Maciel Degollado, fondatore della Congregazione dei Legionari di Cristo, per delitti riservati all’esclusiva competenza del Dicastero. Nel 2002, il Rev.do Maciel pubblicò una dichiarazione per negare le accuse e per esprimere il suo dispiacere per l’offesa recatagli da alcuni ex Legionari di Cristo. Nel 2005, per motivi di età avanzata, il Rev.do Maciel si ritirò dall’ufficio di Superiore Generale della Congregazione dei Legionari di Cristo.

Tutti questi elementi sono stati oggetto di maturo esame da parte della Congregazione per la Dottrina della Fede, e, a norma del Motu Proprio "Sacramentorum sanctitatis tutela" promulgato il 30 aprile 2001 dal Servo di Dio Giovanni Paolo II, l’allora Prefetto della Congregazione per la Dottrina della Fede, Sua Eminenza il Cardinale Joseph Ratzinger, ha autorizzato una investigazione delle accuse. Nel frattempo avvenne la morte di Papa Giovanni Paolo II e l’elezione del Cardinale Ratzinger a nuovo Pontefice.

Dopo aver sottomesso le risultanze dell’investigazione ad attento studio, la Congregazione per la Dottrina della Fede, sotto la guida del nuovo Prefetto, Sua Eminenza il Cardinale William Levada, ha deciso - tenendo conto sia dell’età avanzata del Rev.do Maciel che della sua salute cagionevole - di rinunciare ad un processo canonico e di invitare il Padre ad una vita riservata di preghiera e di penitenza, rinunciando ad ogni ministero pubblico. Il Santo Padre ha approvato queste decisioni.

Indipendentemente dalla persona del Fondatore si riconosce con gratitudine il benemerito apostolato dei Legionari di Cristo e dell’Associazione Regnum Christi.

If anyone would like to translate, feel free. We'll have English in a couple of hours, I imagine, once the VIS comes out.

Zadok has a summary and comments

Comments

[Zadok the Roman]

Not a translation, but a summary over at my 'blog.

Apologies - no time to prepare a proper translation!

[nicole]

Thank you for that summary. This is very sad and to me it still leaves questions, which is very unfortunate for all involved.

Nicole

[chris K]

Yes, Nicole, questions still linger. I'm wondering if that may be due to Rome now being seen as applying more of a U.S. protocol for accused priests since Levada has taken over. The sadness may also be caused by the lingering questions within this state of limbo, and the usual "to follow" application of personal biases and interpretations that will most likely be used by the MSM.

[Attilla the Nun]

Such denial, such wonder, such naivite...

Is ANYONE is surprised at ANY of these things anymore?

Shoot, most of the founders of these religious orders are twisted egomaniacs. It seems to be a requirement, or at the very least, one of the traits they have in common.

What IS telling, is the main charge AGAINST JPII was that he turned a blind eye and allowed his flock to be raped, abused, and tossed aside. Ignoring thousands of pleas to "do somthing."

So, here we have Lavendar Levada, and Ratzing/B16 REFUSING again to take the high road and DEAL forthrightly with the perverts in leadership. Instead, offering the perp an easy way out, letting him save face, and ONCE AGAIN, telling all the VICTIMS around the world, that regardless of how blantant the offense, the numbers involved, the crediblity of the accusers...the FIRST, LAST, and FORMOST and *ONLY* concern the church has is for IT's REPUTATION, IT's POWER, IT's INSIDERS....

Oh well, I guess hoping that good men would do good things, and the Vaticanisti Curia are just mutually incompatible.

I will let the timeless words of Saint Paul say what has to be said here...

----- Romans 1:28 (KJ2000) And even as they did not like to retain God in their knowledge, God gave them over to a reprobate mind, to do those things which are not proper;

29 Being filled with all unrighteousness, fornication, wickedness, covetousness, maliciousness; full of envy, murder, debate, deceit, malignity; whisperers,

30 Backbiters, haters of God, despiteful, proud, boasters, inventors of evil things, disobedient to parents,

31 Without understanding, covenant breakers, without natural affection, implacable, unmerciful:

32 Who knowing the judgment of God, that they who commit such things are worthy of death, not only do the same, but have pleasure in them that do them. -----

I believe it is time to just give up and call it quits in hoping for meaningful reform coming from Rome...

[nicole]

Yes Chris, as a Regnum Christi member w/a kid in a Legion high school, I am VERY concerned about the apostolates of the Legion. Formost I am concerned about justice and I guess on the brief summary that I read, I don't see a 'yes, he did it' decision, I am still unsure as to what they think, it is left to an implication, which as you said depending on personal biases and interpretations could differ. How's that for a long, rambling sentence?

My concern for the apostolates is not to keep them going at all costs or to sweep anything under the rug so that it is business as usual. It comes down to the very practical, will my daughter's high school make it? If not, where will she go? If it continues, do they still have Founder's Day? Is it still the Maciel National Honor Society?

I hope this is an example of the real life implications and consequences of this announcement to all reading. I know from reading this blog for several years that whenever the Legion is brought up, some very snide and uncharitable things will be said. But remember, there are a lot of real, innocent people that will be affected by this and they don't deserve it. Again, yes, justice is paramount and the truth needs to be out, I would never suggest otherwise. But part of my sadness, in the end, is purely selfish. How will this affect me and my family?

Nicole

[sk]

The simple reality is that one must now assume that Fr. Maciel is guilty, at least beyond a reasonable doubt, of these accusations. I take no joy in this, and see it as a very sad day for the church and for one of the most vibrant organisations within it.

One has to read between the lines on this - there is no way that B16 would urge Fr Maciel to a life of silence and penance, and make this public, unless there was a very strong probability that he believed the accusations. Let's remember, he has read the files and has been familiar with the case for some time.

Now, it can be spun in such a way as to make it look like Fr Maciel has been exonerated and is a victim of the Vatican - there's no trial, so he's exonerated to a point, but he's still a victim as his name hasn't been cleared. This lacks all credibility, and I hope that the LC and RC don't maintain this spin.

What will annoy me most about all of this though is the gloating of some of the ex-LC and ex-RC members, typical of what one finds over at Regain and of their posts when they come here. They win no friends for their cause by their tone and do themselves little credit. The same goes for those who have been crowing about Weigel, Neuhaus etc having to retract their support for Fr Maciel.

This doens't invalidate the LC and RC and there is no case for their suppression.

What it does do, however, is show us a very important spiritual lesson. Even though we may start out in life on the right path, we must continue in a spiritual battle throughout all our life. None of us, even charismatic founders, are immune from the threat of serious mortal sins, and we must fight and pray for final perseverance.

Our prayers should go with LC, RC and Fr Maciel (as well as the victims). In particular we should pray for the sanctification of Fr Maciel as he approaches the end of his life, for his forgiveness if he is guilty, and that the humiliation this imposes on him if he is innocent will win him a great reward in heaven.

[exLC]

I would encourage people to review my prior posts here where I document a number of questionable rules of the group. The entire LC/RC core IS built by/around/according to Maciel. How can it be sound? It failed to deal with him. It defended him (and I predict still will defend him).

Tom Hoopes - I assume you are personally suffering and I am praying for you. What happened to "Maciel EXHONERATED - there will be NO ACTION taken" of last year? It was a LIE then, and I hope you can see that now.

[sk]

I posted a comment 10 minutes ago about snide and nasty tones, and two have already appeared.

Enough already!!!

Attila the Nun: you are wrong. This is a VERY serious sentence and punishment. The man can no longer say Mass anymore in public. He is discredited and marginalsied in the Church. Pope benedict has urged him to penance and to save his soul. That is the main issue now.

ExLC, give Tom Hoopes a break. You say he's suffering? Well, leave him alone then and don't make this day worse.

Charity, people, charity. We have to love all, even those we don't like.

[Lee Podles]

The Vatican states that Ratzinger had authorized an investigation. The Legion consistently denied there was an investigation, and even had an ally at the Secretary of State fax a letter that no investigation existed. This action by the Legion demonstrated duplicity and manipulativeness, not simply a conviction that Maciel was innocent.

Although the Vatican is not pursuing a canonical case because of Maciel’s age and health (not because of lack of evidence), it invites (i.e. commands) Maciel to retire from public life to a life only of prayer and penance. Penance indicates that the Vatican thinks Maciel is guilty.

When Cardinal Schönborn was confronted with accusations of sexual abuse against his predecessor Cardinal Groër, accusations that Schönborn believed, he said that the sins of a bishop are not a private matter, because they affect the whole church, and require public acknowledgment and repentance. The same is true, a fortiori, of a founder of a religious order.

[Patrick]

There is need for reform, not suppression, of the LC/RC movement to recognize the problem and distance itself away from its founder. They do much good work and would do much better if they looked to the Office of the Holy Father as their "superior general."

[jerome]

“Dopo aver sottomesso le risultanze dell’investigazione ad attento studio, la Congregazione per la Dottrina della Fede, sotto la guida del nuovo Prefetto, Sua Eminenza il Cardinale William Levada, ha deciso - tenendo conto sia dell’età avanzata del Rev.do Maciel che della sua salute cagionevole - di rinunciare ad un processo canonico e di invitare il Padre ad una vita riservata di preghiera e di penitenza, rinunciando ad ogni ministero pubblico. Il Santo Padre ha approvato queste decisioni.”

After having submitted the results of the investigation to attentive study, the CDF, under the guidance of its new prefect, SER Levada, has decided – taking into account the advanced age of Rev. Maciel and of his frail health – to forgo a canonical process and instead invite Father to a life confined to prayer and penance, renouncing all public ministry. The Holy Father has approved this decision.

[MG]

This from the LC website:

"In reference to the news regarding the conclusion of the investigation of the accusations made against Fr. Marcial Maciel, our beloved father founder, the Congregation of the Legionaries of Christ offer the following statement:

"1. Fr. Marcial Maciel has received during his life a great number of accusations. In the last few years, some of these were presented to the Holy See so that a canonical process would be opened.

"2. Facing the accusations made against him, he declared his innocence and, following the example of Jesus Christ, decided not to defend himself in any way.

"3. Considering his advanced age and his frail health, the Holy See has decided not to begin a canonical process but to 'invite him to a reserved life of prayer and penance, renouncing to any public ministry'.

"4. Fr. Maciel, with the spirit of obedience to the Church that has always characterized him, he has accepted this communiqué with faith, complete serenity and tranquility of conscience, knowing that it is a new cross that God, the Father of Mercy, has allowed him to suffer and that will obtain many graces for the Legion of Christ and the Regnum Christi Movement.

"5. The Legionaries of Christ and the members of the Regnum Christi, following the example of Fr. Maciel and united to him, accept and will accept always the directives of the Holy See with profound spirit of obedience and faith. We renew our commitment to work with great intensity to live our charism of charity and extend the Kingdom of Christ serving the Church."

http://www.legionariesofchrist.org/eng/articulos/articulo.phtml?se=279&ca=765&te=193&id=15077

The Vatican statement left much between the lines. So does this. It seems pretty reasonable to suppose that what the Vatican statement left between the lines is something like "there's an awfully good chance that at least some of the allegations are substantially true." So my question is, "What is between the lines of LC statement?" It can be read at least two different ways....

[thomas tucker]

Wise and genuinely Christian posts from sk.

[F C Bauerschmidt]

#2 in the LC statement seems to compare Maciel to Christ in his suffering. This represents either massive denial or damnable mendacity -- Neither of which inspires much confidence in the LC.

[Lee Podles]

One of the many troubling things about the Maciel case is that it is not simply about sexual perversion.

There is a stream of Catholicism that exalts obedience above all else, including charity. The exaltation of obedience contains an implicit nominalism and voluntarism: that actions are good and bad not in themselves, but because God commands or forbids them. Therefore God (or his agents) can grant exceptions to the moral law. Victims said that Maciel told them of course homosexuality was wrong, but that the Pope had granted him an exception because of Maciel’s physical needs – and that the victims were bound by obedience to do whatever Maciel asked. This is only one step beyond the corpse obedience that Ignatius of Loyola demanded of the Jesuits.

Charity, not obedience, is the supreme virtue and the source of the unity of the Church. The moral law is simply a statement of reality, of how things are, not an expression of the arbitrary will of God. Catholics have not consistently internalized these truths,

[Charlie]

Lee is right. Maciel is a man who received many favors from John Paul II. The Legionaries grew in stature and importance under the last Pope, who enabled their mission and ministry. Now there are many questions. This may be the blackest mark on John Paul's papacy and it will give rise to other questions. Despite all the rush to canonize him immediately after his death, when the historians review this matter and others during his papacy there will be a different view.

It is pretty clear from the wording of the statement that the charges are credible. And so all those ex LC's who were maligned in the process are deserving of an apology and some kind of compensation for what they have suffered. The declaration as it is stated will likely prevent them from receiving it.

Benedict was courageous in handling this the way he did and I believe he is sending a message about the status of the LC in the Vatican. Still, there is a justice issue here that remains unresolved not only for the victims but also for priests who have been accused and have undergone trials or processes which led to their being defrocked. Maciel is really getting a pass on this, which is fundamentally unjust.

The LC has a lot of discerning to do about their future and about the ways in the past that they have tried to suppress these charges, not the least of which are the propaganda web sites where they enlisted some very notable people to do their bidding for them.

[RealityHits]

Awwww, poor baby....

I wish someone would retire ME to a life of contemplation and prayer ALL EXPENSES PAID in some luxury location.

THATS HARD PUNISHMENT! sniff sniff...

Please!!

What is wrong with you people? The way you simper over and excuse the abusers is appalling. So wonder these men always get away with it, with a slap on the wrist...

[giselle]

Folks, after a little head-scratching and a lot of prayer, I see that this statement is brilliant. Benedict is a genius (or perhaps the Holy Spirit who guides... :-) The Legionaries have lost the wind in their sails, and every person, every apostolate is purified. Now, all action can ONLY be for the benefit of Holy Mother Church, not the glory of the Legion. All "cult of personality" is stripped, and yet the authentic fruit remains. Now all will see over the coming five years or so what fruit was authentic. The schools are built, the seminaries are full, and the channels of evangelisation exist (no matter what the initial incentive). Now they will flourish for Christ, or they will lose their driving force: and all will know. Bully for Benedict.

[Fr. John T. Zuhlsdorf - o{]:¬)]

I have a translation over at my place, if you are interested. I am sure there will be others as well.

o{]:¬)

[MG]

I wonder whether it's really true that Maciel is getting a "pass" here. If his present mental capacity is seriously diminished, then there can't be a trial, right? And if there can't be a trial, then he can't be formally laicized or anything like that, perhaps?

I think the question is: if he were just Fr. Joe Schmoe from St. Mary of the Swamps Parish, very old and in weak health etc., would he get treated the same way, or more harshly, or less?

It does seem to many of us that he's getting let off easy, but it's possible that that's not really true. Canon lawyers, please help us out!

[Arnold]

Well the Catamite Clan's retirement plan seems to be in place, first Law, now Marciel. Not a bad deal, you get caught red handed, and your "punishement" is a cushy retirement, with no duties, at full pay.

How do you sign up for this program?

[Patrick Rothwell]

I would hope that elderly Father Schmoe would get the same punishment as Father Maciel. Imprisoning or throwing Father Maciel out onto the street would be an act of cruelty - not justice. The judgment against Father Maciel seems just to me.

[Charlie]

MG:

There is nothing in the statement about diminished mental capacity. It mentions only his advanced age and compromised health. John Paul II suffered from both without diminished mental capacity. I don't think the document is referring to a canonical ground for not going forth with a trial; the CDF is doing him and the LC a favor by sparing them the logical outcome of a trial that would result in harsher penalties. Remember the most serious charge is that he absolved his accomplices. Vatican documents are very carefully worded; they say no more or no less than what they want to say. If he had diminished mental capacity it would have been mentioned.

In my opinion that is an urban legend that appeared on a blog post as a possible way to understand why the CDF did not recommend a canonical trial. From the wording of the document it looks like they are simply letting him withdraw from public ministry, which is a rather benign punihsment for what the man has done.

[frbrianop]

Two things to keep in mind: 1) the Roman penchant for "bella figura" -- trying to 'save face" in almost all circumstances, especially for those in positions of prominence (think Cardinal Law), and 2) the LC is a religious order, founded as such by Fr Maciel. The CDF's declaration makes it amply clear that they believe the substance of the charges against the Founder and that, as a religious, he must be taken care of for the rest of his days here on earth by the community he belongs to, but he will no longer have any public ministry nor any more opportunity to harm anyone else.

[RealityHits]

Wow, look how many pleased as punch Catholics there are, that this guy just got a slap on the wrist and sent off to his cushy retirement. Amazing isnt it? Lets set all the child molesters free, after all its "cruel", that they are in prison... sniff sniff....

Again I ask WHAT IS WRONG WITH YOU PEOPLE?

Was anything DONE? Not really. Just more WORDS, with no ACTION. More platitudes to please the rubes to think something was done, when it wasnt, just like the promise to clean up the seminaries.

Everything is now perfect in the land of OZ, The Wizard has done his magic.

[JP]

I know little of the case or the Legionaires. So, please forgive me for asking a silly question. Why haven't the civil authorities been notified? Have the accusers contacted the local DA? How many victims are there? Are there others in the order who have also been accused?

[M. Randall]

Since when does justice have a time deadline? If he's guilty, he's guilty. And one would be fooling to believe he does not have supporters (co-conspirators?) still within the order. They should be brought out into the light as well.

Do they (you) not understand that a restoration of trust among the laity will only begin when we actually see the CDF et al begin taking serious but charitable actions against the sinful of our Church?

It pains me greatly to see this type of news. I'm not sure how much if anything the hierarchy of the Faith has learned from the last 10 years.

[bc]

It seems like the Vatican handled this delicately and achieved all of their goals. It also seems like the victims, the pain of the victims and all of condemnation thrown the victims' way in all of this never factored into the Vatican's decision making process. That's a tragedy. I'm reminded of a scene in "Magnolia" that summed up so much of the pain and frustration that these poor people feel - a simple statement taped to an abused, shattered girl's painting: "but it did happen"
That's one of the biggest things these people need, and (it seems) the furthest thing from the vatican's mind. If Marciel is innocent, say it. If he's guilty, SAY IT. Diplomacy,delicacy and calculation have no place in the area of abuse and molestation.

[Maureen O'Brien]

"Shoot, most of the founders of these religious orders are twisted egomaniacs. It seems to be a requirement, or at the very least, one of the traits they have in common."

So you've done a study of _all_ the founders of _all_ the religious orders in _all_ the world? And the percentage of twisted egomaniac founders is what? 99.99%? 51%? Or has it varied down the years? Give us some numbers.

Actually, my informal study of religious founders seems to indicate that founders are usually strong but humble people, who make their mark and then get shoved aside by the younger generation. A lot of times they end up in some tiny convent, where none of the other nuns or brothers is aware that the geezerette or geezer in the corner is actually their founder. Another common pattern is founders who die before their order really gets going. Another is founders who actually choose obscurity, to allow their successors to have a clear field. Beyond that, there are many who have strong egos, but are working on them; and who definitely aren't twisted.

Of course, there are founders out there who are twisted egomaniacs, or do other bad things. Their movements are usually more like personality cults than actual orders, which is why their orders often don't survive their deaths -- or not by long. Religious orders only live if they are focused on Christ.

[chris K]

I would assume that many questions remain rather unanswered for the Legonaries such as just what changed to give a stronger foundation for truthfulness to the accusers, etc., within this year's time, over and above the decades of attention to this case. One question might also involve the rather swift amount of time since the latest collection of testimony that has resulted in today's announcement of sanctions:

Around the time of the death of Pope John Paul II in 2005, (Monsignor) Scicluna (congregation's promoter of justice) traveled to Mexico to collect testimony from additional accusers. Later, Scicluna prepared a final dossier, which went before the cardinal members of the congregation and eventually Pope Benedict XVI.

A senior Vatican official told NCR that the decisive break came only in late 2004, when a number of additional accusers came forward. Prior to that, he said, both John Paul and then-Cardinal Ratzinger, now Benedict XVI, were operating on the assumption that the charges were not justified.

(and, hmm, Magister's comments of May 20, 2005!! where he mentions the statute of limitations on all but the newly made accusation about the abuse of the confessional - can this be the only basis now for the latest investigation?):

http://www.chiesa.espressonline.it/dettaglio.jsp?id=31208&eng=y

Again, I have to wonder about former C. Ratzinger's now expected adherence to his newly appointed head of CDF's (Levada's) following of his own experience with U.S. protocol re: accused priests that has resulted in a swifter "answer" after the recent collection of testimony just within the past year. In this, I suppose that, without some leaks from that latest investigation, we'll not understand the new decision making process.

This should add to Frances Kissling's delight since she used one of the latest accusers, pushing him to speak to one of the committees, to try to bring down the Church and completely eliminate it along any of its influence at the UN.

Yes, sad, for all.

[James Kabala]

I don't understand why he wasn't fully laicized, but I don't see this outcome as particularly "cushy." And even if he had been laicized, unless he was also jailed, I don't know if that would have been any less cushy. I assume that he or his supporters have money stored up somewhere, so an outcome in which he ended up a homeless vagabond, however desirable that might be, was never a strong possibility.
As for why he isn't going to be prosecuted, I can't answer that question. I believe the molesations took place in Mexico, and I don't know whether the concept of "statute of limitations" exists there. Certainly there is no such thing as a DA, although I assume there must be some sort of equivalent local prosector. But I don't know how a case would come to trial anyway - I don't believe they have grand juries, indictments, etc.

[Catherine L]

Nicole,

I'm in the same situation as you, with my oldest in a Legionary school. Surprisingly to me at least, I agree with Giselle about the practical implications for this outcome. I've never had any doubt that the focus of the Legion and Regnum Christi has been Christ and His Church, and now is the time for all of us to show it.

JP-

I believe that the accusations of sexual abuse were made in the last 10 - 15 years but allegedly happened decades ago in Mexico. You can imagine the practical problems in getting the civil authorities involved. I don't think that anyone else in the order was accused, but others probably know more about this than me.

[BK]

No one knows and probably no known will ever know if he is guilty or not of the charges made against him. I think this cloud of uncertainty hanging over him and his congregation is intolerable and I would press for a trial so that he could either clear his name or let everyone see the credibilty of the evidence for themselves.

At the end of the day, we still can only make a moral judgment based on his life, works, words, the fruit he has produced, etc. to determine whether he is being honest when he denies the charges or if it makes sense that he is lying.

[thomas tucker]

One wonders what RealityHits would like to se done- have Maciel hauled before the Inquisition? Oh, right, we don't do that any more. How about dispatching an albino asassin form Opus Dei? Oh, right, that's fiction.
Send out the Swiss Guard to cut him down at the knees? Probably wouldn't go over well in the NY Times.
Someone else put their finger on it- criminal punishment needs to come from the secular authorities, not the Church.

[James Englert]

In an alternate universe:

"After having attentively studied the results of the investigation, the Prosecutor's Office, under the guidance of the new District Attorney, decided - bearing in mind the defendant's advanced age and his delicate health - to forgo a trial and to invite the gentleman to a life of television and evening walks, relinquishing the good opinion of his neighbors. The County Commissioners approved these decisions."

[Ed the Roman]

While I'm a big fan of involving Caesar quickly in prosecuting crime, it seems that some won't be happy unless Fr. Maciel is beheaded by the Swiss Guard in St. Peter's Square.

And I'm sure that Francis was another really twisted egomaniac.

[Anon in the South]

But the problem with all this is that by their own admission, Maciel has created the "charism" by which the LCs work. His spirit is very much a part of their formation and their ongoing life. I have contact with the LCs in Atlanta, who by and large are good men working on behalf of the church. But their formation is strongly influenced by Maciel and as such, needs reform, not suppression. It is high time that they need reform as Maciel's spirit needs to be excised from their formation and guidance. I for one am glad it has been resolved and then maybe an honest appropriation can be made about their work. Maciel's defender is dead, let us get on with the work that needs to be done.

[midwestmom]

"I know little of the case or the Legionaires. So, please forgive me for asking a silly question. Why haven't the civil authorities been notified? Have the accusers contacted the local DA? How many victims are there? Are there others in the order who have also been accused?"

I think the alleged victims are all older men at this point. It's not a LC thing, it's a Maciel thing; guilt by association won't work here.

I think Maciel is probably thanking God profusely that he received this judgment. IMHO, it's a good deal all around for the LC and the Church. As for the victims, we'll have to wait to hear their reaction but I'm guessing they'll be marginally pleased.

[Will Barrett]

"At the end of the day, we still can only make a moral judgment based on his life, works, words, the fruit he has produced, etc. to determine whether he is being honest when he denies the charges or if it makes sense that he is lying."

And of course one must take into account the men whose lives have been damaged by their encounters with the Legionaries too.

[TrollWatcher]

>>One wonders what RealityHits would like to see done

TT & Maureen (& anyone else being suckered in by the troll):

Atilla the Nun & RealityHits are either the same person, or are friends. (S)he/they are ex-Catholics of the born-again Christian "Catholic Church is the Whore of Babylon" school of thought who show up on various Catholic blogs to hurl vitriol at the Church in any way possible. The only thing they would like done is for the whole Church to collapse and for everyone to become a "true bible believer". To that end, (s)he/they revel in every item involving scandal in the Church.

Just thought I'd warn you: don't feed the troll.

[giselle]

From the LC's:

"4. Fr. Maciel, with the spirit of obedience to the Church that has always characterized him, he has accepted this communiqué with faith, complete serenity and tranquility of conscience, knowing that it is a new cross that God, the Father of Mercy, has allowed him to suffer and that will obtain many graces for the Legion of Christ and the Regnum Christi Movement."

That the Legion wants to spin him as an ever-faithful martyr is very telling. They will not allow his image to be tarnished, nor his "cult of personality" to be removed from the charism.

[Juan]

This is so sad for those in the Legion and those who support it. The evidence points to Fr. Maciel's guilt, yet it is hard to believe that he would commit such abusive acts and be so brazen in his denials--that would just be pure evil. Perhaps, this is just psychobable, but is it conceivable that Fr. Maciel has what amounts to a split personality--predator and devout founder and that his denial is so deep that he cannot recall his actions? How else could someone live with such internal contradictions. Let God judge him, but let us not celebrate him.

[dave boyd]

First: I think that this is a pretty clear statement that the authorities, including BXVI, believe that much of the substance is true. While perhaps some LC people in their cocoon will engage in denial, it is a truth that others, such as Maciel's public defenders among the Catholic inteligentsia, will have to acknowledge.

As a whole, this is sad, but I want to explain how I, hoping that I am not lacking in charity, regard this as almost a happy moment. It has seemed to me for some years that the charges were, at least, plausible, and that the accusations were far more convincing than the denials. Seeing the continuing defense of Maciel and the LC by our beloved JPII and such as George Weigel, Fr. Richard Neuhaus and Prof. Mary Ann Glendon was, to say the least, extremely disconcerting and disorienting to those of us who respect those people.

So now we feel as though we have been released from a carnival-funhouse hall of mirrors and are able to see the world in a clearer and less alarming way. So while the whole thing is so very, very sad, please excuse some of us for feeling, this morning, both relieved and oddly exhiliarated. I am sure that the accusers and their supporters, who have been defamed at every turn by Maciel's defenders, have those feelings far more intensely than I.

And as for the defenders who will (I dearly hope) eat some crow, I say in all truth that I think they are, on so many issues, among the wisest observers and commentators on so many issues about the church and the church's role in public life and related issues. Nevertheless, they, at least the male pair of Neuhaus and Weigel, have had a tendency towards arrogance and unnecessary combativeness and self-indulgent rhetorical display that has undermined their good work, as well as being offensive in itself. The fact that they, especially Fr. Neuhaus, have made statements that are stupefyingly embarrassing in retrospect, may stimulate some salutary reflection and humility on their part and produce a change in manner that will amplify their good work and mostly wise counsel.

(FWIW, none of Weigel's carefully crafted statements that I have seen ever stated that he believed the charges false; only that the fruit of LOC/RC that he saw was good.]

Please all of you remian in prayer that our Lord will work this painful situation out for His prposes, however difficult thery are for us to see.

[Jeff]

Giselle and those who think this is a brilliant solution are fooling themselves. All religious orders are based on devotion to the charism of the founder; in the Legionaries this was taken to the absolute extreme. I have only visited one of their seminaries once, and in their morning prayers it was "Nuestro Padre...Nuestro Padre...Nuestro Padre...". Maciel's guidelines specify even the most minute details of their lives, all the way down to how they are supposed to part their hair (some of these guidelines seem rather disgusting now). Are they going to eliminate all that?

[Charles]

http://www.renewamerica.us/columns/mershon/060518

More than 100 corrobortating interviews with the Vatican's promoter of justice. More than 100.

What would you do with your children if your school's principal or headmaster were even accused (guilty or not) by more than 100 students who were of the same sex?

What would a responsible and prudent parent's duty be in this situation?

[James Kabala]

James Englert: I agree that the Church made the wrong decision today, but it's absurd to pretend that it never happens in the real world that people avoid prosecution due to age and health reasons. Ex-dictators Erich Honecker and Augosto Pinochet are two extremely prominent examples (although I believe the latter eventually had his immunity removed and may yet stand trial some day). And if Maciel had committed his crimes in the U.S., the statute of limitations would probably have expired by now.

[simon]

Reality check #1:

This case is about actions that took place decades-ago involving adults. There aren't any secular crimes to prosecute. (And even if there were, why would civil prosecutors need to depend on the Church "turning over" Fr. Maciel to them?).

Reality check #2:

This is an extremely serious penalty within the Church. Octagenarian founders of religious orders aren't prohibited from all public ministry unless Rome finds the evidence of their guilt strongly persuasive. One might wish for a formal canonical trial, but given the man's age there's a likelihood such a long, cumbersome process would have been short-circuited by death, leaving the CDF unable to take any action at all.

At the end of the day, the man's most valuable earthly asset is his reputation and his ability to lead. All that has been taken away. Anyone who considers that a "slap on the wrist" is clueless.

What we should be doing now is praying -- really praying -- for the many very good and holy people whose faith may be sorely tested in the coming days by the revelation of apparent guilt here. Too many Catholics lately seem to misunderstand Our Lord's meaning when He talked about putting the millstone around the scandalizer's neck. We aren't supposed to feel glee that the scandalizer got what he deserved. We are supposed to feel deep sorrow for the harm that has come to "these little ones."

[Catherine L]

For those of you who say that the Legion has defamed the accusers:

Where is the defamation? Is a simple denial of the charges a defamation? The only thing I've ever seen is simple statements that the charges are false and they don't know the motivations of the accusers. Is there something I'm missing?

[giselle]

Jeff: that is why it's brilliant. The Vatican won't act any further, leaving the constitutions as they are. Fine. Now, how will "NP, NP,NP!!!" resonate with a coud over his head. Things that are wrongly-focused will go "thud" of their own weight. That Vatican doesn't have to do it.

[giselle]

Jeff: that is why it's brilliant. The Vatican has indicated that it won't act any further, leaving the constitutions as they are. Fine. Now, how will "NP, NP,NP!!!" resonate with a cloud over his head? Things that are wrongly-focused will go "thud" of their own weight. That Vatican doesn't have to do it.

[Daniel]

Part of the cross we all will carry as a result of the vast majority of us participating in sins against the sixth commandment is the doubt and uncertainty of this case.

Few have seen the evidence and less know the truth. There must be some doubt as Cdl Levada and B16 do not have any trouble dishing out severe public punishments to aged priests. http://www.chiesa.espressonline.it/dettaglio.jsp?id=37078&eng=y

There is a universe of difference between the public treatment of Fr. Maciel and Fr. Gino, a point that many ignore.

No doubt this is a severe pruning for the Legion and Regnum Christi, as the Gospels of the past few days have prepared them to experience. I am certain that they will go on and continue to do their work. Even in announcing the findings, the Holy Father praises the Legion and Regnum Christi; "Independently of the person of the Founder, the worthy apostolate of the Legionaries of Christ and of the Association 'Regnum Christi' is gratefully recognized." So clearly the Holy Father sees them separately and apparently appreciates their work.

In an alternative universe (like the U.S.) these criminal accusations, at least 30+ years old that took 10 years to develop, would have never seen the light of day. The Vatican has spoken, after careful deliberation. The mob (in the near total factual darkness) still calls for more blood, more penance, more humiliation. No doubt we could disembowel him like Braveheart and that still would not be enough for many.

[francis]

I appreciate sk's remarks; they are filled with Christian charity and truth.

My main problem with this whole process has been the reaction of LC and RC; they simply refuse to believe it is even possible that Fr. Maciel has done such things. Why? Is not only Our Lord and Our Lady without sin? Even now you see the statement here:

"At the end of the day, we still can only make a moral judgment based on his life, works, words, the fruit he has produced, etc. to determine whether he is being honest when he denies the charges or if it makes sense that he is lying."

No, that is not how you judge the credibility of these accusations, as people with clearly just as much pedigree as Fr. Maciel (i.e. Pope Benedict) clearly accept that these accusations have serious merit. As much as it goes against some people's faith, it is possible that someone can do much good in this world and still commit heinous personal sin. That's the reality of humanity, and it's as true for Fr. Maciel as it is for the rest of us.

I will pray for LC and RC that they may come out of this a stronger organization.

[Mike Petrik]

As I understand it the alleged molestations occurred over 50 years ago. I would be surprised if any Western nation has a "statute of limitations" that is remotely that long. This does not mean that Fr. Maciel cannot or should not be canonically disciplined, of course, but the notion that an 86 year-old man should be subject to a criminal trial to evaluate 50 year-old events is pretty much unheard of outside of murder I would think.

That said, I do worry about the future of the L of C -- an order that really has brought hundreds of Catholic families closer to Mother Church. I have observed an almost cultish devotion to their Founder among some (not all), and it will be a challenge to eliminate it. The official L of C response is indicative of the the unhealthy degree of this devotion.

[BK]

Juan, it doesn't really make sense does it?

And btw, no one that uses the word "cult" to criticize any reality in the Church is credible.

[Mike Petrik]

"Where is the defamation? Is a simple denial of the charges a defamation? The only thing I've ever seen is simple statements that the charges are false and they don't know the motivations of the accusers. Is there something I'm missing?"

Well, leaving aside any technical legal niceities, if I alleged that A molested me, and A's organization said my allegations are false, I would have a very hard time not seeing that as an accusation that I am making false allegations, which sure seems defamatory to me.

[Jeff]

Ok, Giselle, I see what you are saying. Possibly you are right. I wonder how the guy I know in the order, and his family, are doing. Either they are taking this really hard or they are in complete denial. Last time I saw them they were just enthralled about the time he got to receive Communion from Fr. Maciel, and they were passing around his picture from the time Fr. Maciel visited the seminary, and they just couldn't stop telling me about how amazing Fr. Maciel's life and work was and how he had been persecuted unfairly long ago but persevered, and how I should pray for the canonization of Fr. Maciel's mother. Wow.

[Tim Ferguson]

simon - you're brilliant! best comment in the thread thus far.

[giselle]

I agree with Tim, Simon. That was very well-said. We all need to pray that the Church will only grow stronger with purification.

[ken]

Charles,
Thanks for the link to the Renewamerica article; it was the most evenhanded account of the Maciel case that I have read.

[James Englert]

Mr. Kabala, fair point, but I wasn't really thinking that the deserving are sometimes not proscecuted under civil law, and of course a limitations period can (and should) prevent prosecution. I don't know whether there is a statute of limitations in canon law, and there are probably many other considerations which makes going forward with a canonical hearing difficult -- stale evidence, reluctance of the injured to come forward, pastoral reasons, etc. But the reasons given by the Congregation relate to Fr. Maciel's condition, not procedural considerations or further injury to the victims. I'm sure my ears aren't attuned to the nuances, but the statement nevertheless sounds odd.

[bc]

Catherine, they (Marciel and anyone who covered for him) did know the motivations of those bringing the accusations: the life altering pain, agony and frustration of being molested by an authority figure and shepherd. In denying these accusations, they bore false witness against the victims. That's not just defamation, it's breaking a commandment. In choosing to let these people suffer, they did a hideous thing. If the legion spokespeople believed Marciel at the time, I understand their denials. But it doesn't change the fact that they publicly (unwittingly) assisted in calling these people liars. The Legion, at a bare minimum, owes these people a public apology.

[sk]

The official LC response, while predictable, is somewhat problematic. Can an order really continue to extol the virtues of its founder when the Pope has silenced him? Yet, how can an order live its charism without reference to its founder? It is a difficult one.

For the rest of us, we should support them and pray for them and pray for Fr Maciel and his alleged victims. Both sides cannot be correct in this, and one side or the other is profoundly evil, either in its actions or in its false accusations. It is this evil that has brought us to this point, and that evil should never be celebrated as some no doubt want to do so.

Imagine the pain of the victims if the abuse was real. Imagine also the pain of Fr Maciel in the face of this statement if he is innocent. It is terrible whatever way you look at it.

Giselle, I have read your blog and have had doubts about it but I respect some of your posts here, they seem very fair to me.

[sk]

One other point: What do people make of the last paragraph of the Vatican statement: "Independent of the person of the founder..."

It is an unusual statement. In itself it seems to imply guilt to some degree. Any comments?

[littlejohn]

What we should be doing now is praying -- really praying -- for the many very good and holy people whose faith may be sorely tested in the coming days by the revelation of apparent guilt here. Too many Catholics lately seem to misunderstand Our Lord's meaning when He talked about putting the millstone around the scandalizer's neck. We aren't supposed to feel glee that the scandalizer got what he deserved. We are supposed to feel deep sorrow for the harm that has come to "these little ones."
-simon

If the people who are out to condemn in glee only followed this, then it would make some real difference.

[MG]

Charlie,

I formulated my remark poorly. I didn't mean to imply that Fr. Maciel *is* suffering from diminished mental capacity, but only that, *if* he were, he probably couldn't stand trial (and I was hoping for a canon lawyer to jump in and explain things to us).

You're certainly right that the statement doesn't say anything explicit about diminished mental capacity; I was wondering, however, whether "weak health" might be a euphemism meant to leave room for it. Maybe some Vatican-watchers can fill us in here: could "weak health" be Vaticanease for "going senile," or is that not plausible?

Setting aside the question of what the right punishment should be, another issue is whether the Vatican statement ought to have been more explicit so that no one can spin it. It seems to me that the statement is pretty unmistakable, but I don't have any particular desire to think well (or badly) of Fr. Maciel; those who love him have, perhaps, been given space to continue believing that the charges are false. (If anyone objects that I should desire to think well of Fr. Maciel, I reply that I can't think well of everyone in this situation--either the accusers are lying or Fr. Maciel is lying, or some people are amazing deluded--so there's no outcome to wish for, except the truth itself.)

Can anyone interpret the LC statement except as a delicately-worded denial?

[Charles]

No Mike. You have been reading too much L of C propaganda. There have been 100 alleged abused victims interviewed, most recently in Mexico and Ireland. Some cases went into at least the 1980s. These are just the ones who have come forward.

Is it possible that 100 former seminarians and priests (some who are currently diocesan priests and healthcare professionals and attorneys who are Catholics in good standing have all banded together because they HATE the Church and want to destroy Fr. Maciel and the Legion?

Is this possible? I guess? Is it probable? Is it possible that the Legion, and particularly Fr. Maciel, are liberally using the canonical "mental reservations" in their dealings with this matter?

The ordinary person would merely call it lying or bearing false witness. Why do they have a fourth vow to never talk "crossline" about faults? Only complain or redress grievances UPLINE? Gee, I wonder... How has this control mechanism worked out thus far?

Look, nobody that loves Christ and His Church enjoys any of this--especially when a large, powerful organization like the Legion and its lay apostolates is suddenly looking like they have been concealing the most hideous of moral crimes. MOST hideous.

Would you allow your children to attend a school where the principal has had 100 students accuse him of sexually abusing them? Would you?

[Tim Ferguson]

canonically, there's not a specific rule prohibiting a trial if one of the actors has diminished mental capacity, though the absolute right of one to defend oneself against allegations would certainly be diminished if that were the case. In the penal section of the code there are provisions made for lessening or eliminating a punishment based on one's lower mental capacity, but that's with reference to one's capacity at the time the delict (crime) was committed. In trials where someone is unable to answer charges due to the lack of the use of reason, a curator can and should be appointed (cc. 1478-1479) to ensure that rights are protected.

Still, the Church recognizes circumstances wherein a judicial process would not be just (c. 1342) yet a penalty could still be imposed. As this announcement does not specifically refer to a penalty being imposed, but rather an invitation to a life of penance, it doesn't seem that this canon is being called into play here (though the actual wording of the decree, not just the press announcement, would be vital to understanding it in full).

[chris K]

Catherine, they (Marciel and anyone who covered for him) did know the motivations of those bringing the accusations

Now wait a minute. In fairness was there nothing to cause doubt in the facts of their leader, after 3 years being silenced, being exonerated by the initial, and what they felt was, a thorough examination, nor in the facts of the much later accusations involving a recanting of accusation and admission by others that they were asked to falsely accuse? How does that show that the Legionaries "knew" the real motivations of accusers?

This whole thing involves a slew of characters and ongoing questions. And just what is the protocol now being followed by Levada? For silencing does there have to be a number of collaberated or similar accusations which would still remain in the atmosphere as unsatisfied if not acted upon? Is there something different in the past year's investigation that resulted in something purer than the 9 accusers out of which there was a recanting? To be honest, we, at this point, still don't know.

[Sue T.]

Is there a web site out there that talk's about the evidence against Maciel? I don't know too much about the case and am curious.

bc...I doubt that the Legion was purposely trying to break a commandment and harm the accusers. Rather, confirmation bias likely led them to want to believe the best about Maciel. It's difficult for people to believe bad things about someone they respect and admire, especially when 50-year-old allegations are involved.

This is sad for everyone...
Maciel, because his soul is in danger...

His defenders, because they probably defended someone unworthy of such a defense...

The victims, because of the suffering they endured...

The LC/RC members, because of a blemish on their organization and possibly a sense of disillusionment/crisis of faith...

The Church hierarchy, because whatever action they took, people were going to be upset...

[bc]

Chris K, sorry for the confusion. I was speaking about anyone who did know what was going on. But the situation with those in the legion who didn't know about the abuse and defended MM illustrates the problem with the Vatican's statement. In putting MM first, and finding a delicate, diplomatic way of dealing with an ugly situation, they left the flock out twisting in the wind. The victims didn't get what they needed: an apology, affirmation of their truthfullness, and healing. The good people in the legion didn't get what they needed: an absence of confusion, an answer about their founder's guilt.

[midwestmom]

"This is so sad for those in the Legion and those who support it."

It's only sad for those who put too much stock in their human leaders. It's happened countless times....the super-orthodox leader turns out to be leading a double life. I learned this lesson the hard way and had my eyes opened. My all-time favorite priest turned out to be - in a word - a jerk. I'm still coming to grips with it - but to his crecit, I learned a helluva lot from him over the years. When all's said and done, my "leader" is Christ and no one else.

We have to get beyond this behavior of turning certain priests into ecclesial rockstars. That's not good for us OR them. This same behavior is what created, IMHO, the environment for parish priests' to abuse children.

When we are betrayed by those we thought were "the good guys", the temptation arises to throw in the towel and bail out of the Church. But their human sin doesn't change the Truth of Christ's one, holy, catholic and apostolic Church.

It is, however, our duty to insist that the deceptive leaders are removed from their pedastals, no matter who it is. It's a tough pill to swallow but there is no other way.

The Legion of Christ is bigger than Fr. Maciel.

[lk]

I have to agree with those who are saying that this isn't truly punishment. Being "forced" to have an all expense paid life of reading, 'riting and relaxation seems to be the three R(ewards) for abuse in the Church. And the higher up you are, the better the rewards. Law gets a villa in Rome. I haven't read where Maciel has been sent to, but somehow I'm pretty sure it's a place I'd love to be able to vacation in.

[T. Chan]

James Englert--
But the reasons given by the Congregation relate to Fr. Maciel's condition, not procedural considerations or further injury to the victims. I'm sure my ears aren't attuned to the nuances, but the statement nevertheless sounds odd.

MG--
another issue is whether the Vatican statement ought to have been more explicit so that no one can spin it

But it's difficult to be more explicit, to mention victims as victim and so on without declaring guilt--and yet the whole point of the statement is that a formal canonical trial, whereby a formal judgment of guilt could be rendered, will not be pursued. Can a statement informally declare guilt when a formal declaration of guilt cannot be given? That would be unjust. It seems to me that all the statement can do is what it has done.

[exLC]

sk - Tom Hoopes is editor the "National Catholic Register" -- which specifically stated last year that Maciel was exhonerated, a big fat LC propoganda LIE. He's a big boy, who if he has any self-respect, or respect for truth, will be updating his resume.

bk - the fruit of Maciel is a cult, despite your claim: "And btw, no one that uses the word "cult" to criticize any reality in the Church is credible."

Speaking as a former member who knows from personal experience that the LC is a cult (or "cult-like" group using "cult" tactics?)
you have no credibility.

Fortunately, I think a large number of people will now be a little more open-minded regarding the reality of the LC/RC cult.

See www.regainnetwork.org for more information.

[padrechillin]

I praise God for giving Pope Benedict the courage to issue this ruling in light of what I am sure was HUGE pressure not to do anything, especially in light of Pope John Paul's blind spot in this area since it has been stated it was a common tactic of the communists in wanting to discredit someone they didn't like, to unjustly accuse them of sexual impropriety and espeically homosexuality and sexual abuse, which of course PJPII grew up in. It just saddens me that the Legionary leadership today continues to make excuses for Fr. M- but it isn't surprising in light of fallen human nature and the amazing ability to rationalize and spiritualize everything in self-deception if you want to.

[Anon in the South]

I repeat, the person of Maciel and the LCs are so interwoven. Its a diffcult road to hoe and it cannot be avoided. Look at other orders and you can see their founder in so much of what they are and do (Benedictines, Franciscans,etc) I suspect some very hard work lies ahead for the LCs.

[Christopher Chapman]

It is both a sad and happy occasion and it is important to note both sides. It is a sad day because the exposure (the beginning of exposure?) of Father Maciel's sins effects the whole Body of Christ and those who are members of LC and RC most intimately. However the coming into the light of sins which have been committed also is vindication for those who were most directly harmed. We should all be pleased that some form of justice is being meted out. Those who are concerned that Father Maciel is not being trotted out in handcuffs and exposed to the world should ponder that the justice of Earth is limited to begin with. Should we be angry that an 86 year old man is being treated with a certain amount of mercy? I think not.
The fact is that Father Maciel IS being publicly disgraced for his former deeds, albeit in as gentle and penitential manner as is possible. It seems to me that it is just the kind of justice that should be administered in this case. It is the kind of justice and mercy one would expect from an Institution specifically founded by Christ Himself to get all of us to Heaven!
It is important to praise all of the good that LC and RC have done and continue to do; however from personal experience and the experience of numerous friends, one can very easily conclude that LC and RC have a number of problems that undermine the natural and human elements of what they attempt to do. It is not far-fetched to think that this stems from the founder himself. This time could be an opportunity for the LC and RC to revisit and purify some of their internal rules and guidlines. I hope when the time is right, that they will humbly admit the failures of their founder and if he is in a condition to do so, he also needs to do this. Then justice will begin to be satisfied.
In the meantime the one thing that we can all do, is offer up our prayers and fasting for the salvation of Father Maciel, the good of the Legion and RC, and of course the whole Church.

[midwestmom]

If the LC is a "cult" because its members are asked to part their hair on a certain side - or whatever petty discipline - then we can call the U.S. Marine Corps a "cult" as well.

No one is tied down and forced to join the Legion. The lifestyle either appeals to a person or it doesn't.

[lk]

I keep hearing about all the wonderful things that the LC does. However, if an organization was founded by someone who commits both crimes and sexual sins, how good, holy and pure can the organization be? An organization takes its charism from its founder and if the founder is an abuser, liar and manipulator, what makes you think that this traits aren't going to be present in the organization they have founded? If you have built your house on quicksand, no matter how well constructed the walls are, the foundation isn't going to hold.

[exLC]

midwestmom,

The Marines are not a cult. The Legion is. For starters, members are misled about what they are joining and yes, they are spiritually and psychologically tied down. The issues are far more complex than you appear to realize.

[midwestmom]

exLC,

How did you escape?

[JACK]

"The official LC response, while predictable, is somewhat problematic. Can an order really continue to extol the virtues of its founder when the Pope has silenced him? Yet, how can an order live its charism without reference to its founder? It is a difficult one."

There's no doubt that a charism is intertwined with the personality of the founder. But I'm not sure I am so doubtful as some about the future of the LC/RC (theoretically -- I don't know it well enough to speak to it on the facts). There has to be something clear of the charism that is identifiable and recognizable in reference to the Church and its teachings. Meaning, otherwise its just personality and not a charism. That's not to say that there aren't difficult days ahead. But I think if the charism is one that the Spirit intends to have endure, there will be a path forward that allows the LC/RC to continue, and one that doesn't involve denying Fr. Maciel's failings or pretending that he wasn't how the order and movement began, historically.

[northernspring]

News reports indicate that the evidence was overwhelming. We will probably never know for sure. If the accusations are true, then the LC response shows a profound and deeply disturbing lack of spiritual maturity.

[David Kubiak]

Not the least interesting aspect of all this to me is that the Legion is known both for the Hollywood looks of its clerics (often the source of jokes from other priests) and its absolute zero-tolerance of homosexual behavior in the ranks.

It seems to me the society was founded in great psycho-spiritual cognitive dissonance. If everything were to be known about the people who started earlier orders no doubt there would be equal cause for scandal on one ground or another. God brings good out of evil, and I think it is most unfair to claim that the many clergy and laity who are leading holier lives because of the Legion are now somehow permanently tainted.

[exLC]

Among other things, all LC/RC members recite the following from a daily prayer:

"Since the Legion and the Movement will be vigorous and will flourish as long as the spirit of our founder is present and active in our lives and behavior, we ask you to open our eyes to the urgency of learning, assimilating and passing on the doctrine, spirit, apostolic methods, genuine traditions, discipline and lifestyle of the Legion and Regnum Christi, just as our founder has made them known to us, since this is our responsibility.

Lord, help us to adhere totally to the charism you inspired in our founder."

[nicole]

OK exLC, you do NOT speak for all LC/RC members and you do not know what our daily prayers are, what our daily lives are like etc. I would never get on this blog and tell you your experiences are not real or pretend I know what you went through. Please do not try to speak for all of us.

This is a very bad thing, I for one am very sad. I am not so much concerned about my faith or a personal crisis, but I wait and wonder, will my favorite local LC Priest defend Maciel now, or support the Vatican? Will the school principal make a statement or ignore it? Based on those reactions, I will know if I need to move on or can still somehow serve Christ as a member of Regnum Christi.

Nicole

[exLC]

Nicole,

Do you mean to tell me that the above section is not from your version of the "Prayer for the Fidelity of Legionaries and Regnum Christi Members" or that you do not pray it daily? If it is not in your version, would you please post it?

I pray that you will move on from this dangerous and harmful group. It is a big scam. I was deceived for many years. I don't blame you for feeling angry or defensive.

[nicole]

I will have to look. All I can say is we've never been asked to pray this. After Mass we say the prayer for the Pope.

Nicole

[nicole]

PS: I am not angry or defensive. I accept that this means the Holy Father feels Fr. Maciel is guilty of something. What I do not accept is you telling everyone here how it is for all LC/RC members when you don't know all of us.

Nicole

[RC2]

As Peter Vere notes in one of Amy's newer posts above,the Vatican statement is not a conclusive statement of Fr. Maciel's guilt. What's unambiguous in the statement, however,is that the Vatican goes out of its way to praise the Legion & RC, which I read to mean the Church holds them harmless and supports them. That's in marked contrast to, for example, the Order of St. John, or whatever it was called, in which the whole order was seen to be gravely compromised.

[exLC]

If you are an incorporated member, then it must not have been very long. It is in the section of the RC prayerbook of Prayers after Communion (I don't have it in front of me at the moment). Anyway, it is part of what you are called to pray daily in the RC -- when you are "ready" for it. Did you receive an explanation of the 3 degrees of RC membership and the sub categories of the 2nd degree yet?

[Daniel]

exLC - If you really are an exLC it must have been a long time ago. You are so dated and out of touch. Can you do anything but sow impotent seeds of doubt? When are you going to get a life outside of your personal cottage industry of being a parasite of the Legion of Christ, hijacking even their initials? From one that could not or would not cut the Legionary mustard, you sure seem to have a wealth of misinformation to share.

Hiding behind an alias gives you certain freedoms to be a flame thrower and be freed from a questionable past, but you are yet to constructively add to the debate, even with this advantage. Why do you so consistently hide behind an alias? Are you aware of how this detracts from your already lukewarm postings? Are you afraid of some albino consecrated? Opps wrong movement.

The simple fact is that the prayer you quoted is not part of the daily prayer commitments for Members of RC. You are very out of touch. It is one prayer in a 144 page pocket prayer book that contains many common catholic prayers and maybe three or four prayers unique to members of Regnum Christi where members pray in particular for the Legion and Regnum Christi.

[Sherry Weddell]

First of all, I must state I have no knowledge of any kind of the Marciel case but some posters are confusing the charism of his movement with his personal sanctity. They are not the same.

Time for a little catechesis on charisms as many posters are apparently confusing two types of grace which the Church has long distinquished.

1) Charisms do not convey sanctifying grace and are not necessary for our salvation. They are not the same as virtue or the gifts of Isaiah 11 that we receive in baptism and confirmation. Charisms do not confer sanctifying grace

2) Ergo, charisms do not make the recipient of the charisms holy. Nor does the reception of such a gift depend upon depend upon the holiness of the recipient.

Although it was was a common opinion in the middle ages and prior to V2 that only the very holy manifested charisms (for a variety of historical reasons that I don't have time to go into), this very issue was explicitly debated during the debates on the Degree on the Laity in October of 1964. The upshot: the recognition that charisms were distributed very widely and not just to saints.

3) That's why St. Thomas Aquinas, 8 centuries earlier, called charisms "gratuitous graces" - that is, graces not necessary for our personal salvation.

4) Charisms empower Christians to build up the Church and to witness Christ to the world. The are always for the sake of others. They are given to be given away.

5) They are ways that God chooses to allow us to be instruments of Christ's work of redemption by removing impediments to another's response to grace.

6) Charisms do encourage others to open their lives to God and receive sanctifying grace.

7) Charisms do enable the recipient to cooperate in Christ’s redemptive work by healing others.

8) Charisms do enable the recipient to cooperate in Christ’s redemptive work by healing society.

9) While you cannot use a charism deliberately for evil (and therefor, this is not what we mean when we say that Adolf Hitler was a "charismatic" figure), you can manifest a charism while still very much struggling with sin. We can even manifest a charism while in a state of mortal sin.

In fact, since most Christians are struggling with patterns of sin throughout our lives, it's a good but astonishing thing that God chooses to use us anyway - far beyond anything we will ever deserve. He chooses to raise us, as Pascal noted, to the dignity of being causes.

Now, if the charges are true, Marciel's sin may well have affected the ethos and structure of the LCs but his sin cannot corrupt the charism as such, which is a separate matter. He could still be used mightily by God even while in a state of sin. That would also mean that the charisms of his movement (which are usually derived from the founder and are a major source of spiritual unity)are still present and legitimate regardless of his personal sanctity.

His sin (and its reflection in the culture and structure of the community) could hamper( but not destroy or eliminate) the fruitfulness of the gift however just as the holiness of the saints made it possible for their charisms to be so powerfully expressed. There was nothing to get in the way.

For a full list of all Scriptural, pastristic, medieval, V2 and magisterial sources for Church teaching on charisms, I suggest that you get ahold of my little book: The Catholic Spiritual Gifts Resource Guide.

[Sherry Weddell]

Oops - an errors in my previous post. The debate on charisms at the Council was in October of 1965.

[sk]

ExLC:

My point re Tom Hoopes, who I don't know apart from what I have seen him write, is that you are hypocritical to say that you are sure he is suffering and that you are praying for him, and then in the next sentence to call him a liar (or at least complicit in a lie) and to suggest that he needs to start looking for a new job.

You simply cannot be concerned about Mr Hoopes and wishing to pray for him and at the same time express such bitterness. Either your expressions of concern for his sufferings are themselves a lie or you are suffering from a multiple personality disorder.

I understand that you may have been hurt by the LC. Fair enough, I don't know what you went through. But get on with your life and stop being so bitter. Your tone, and that of your website, do little credibility for the cause you espouse.

[Ian]

Wow, lots of angry people.

Instead of writing in ALL CAPS, try using italics or boldface:

1. To italicize, surround your text with <i>...</i>.

2. To make text bold, surround it with <b>...</b>.

Not to say these can't be abused either, but avoiding lots of extraneous marks and CAPS makes you look less crazy, especially when you're passionately vilifying or defending a cult.

[Dan Crawford]

This paragraph floored me.

"Fr. Maciel, with the spirit of obedience to the Church that has always characterized him, he has accepted this communiqué with faith, complete serenity and tranquility of conscience, knowing that it is a new cross that God, the Father of Mercy, has allowed him to suffer and that will obtain many graces for the Legion of Christ and the Regnum Christi Movement."

The Vatican, it seems, has now enhanced Maciel's sanctity by cooperating with God to provide a new cross which will allow Maciel to suffer so that his suffering will obtain many graces for the Legion of Christ and the Regnum Christi movement.

God sure works in mysterious ways. And they are so far beyond my poor human comprehension that I am beginning to wonder whether the action of the CDF and Pope Benedict are actually the opening phase of Maciel's canonization process. When will the Vatican begin receiving reports on the Miracles Maciel's suffering has earned?

[Jason]

I've been finding this discussion fascinating for some reason.

I don't agree that this must be viewed as a guilty verdict. I think the Holy See probably doesn't see the evidence as very strong, but the repeated accusations remain. And so, a life of penance is a morally safe decision. As others have said, leave it to God to bring all the facts to light, and let Fr. Maciel pass into history and let his reputation be what it will be.

If the evidence were strong, I don't think the Holy Father could in good conscience give a neutral order such as this.

[Fortiterinre]

A "life of prayer and penance" is hardly neutral--it is the exact same sentence given to American priests who are child molesters caught at a late age, such that laicization would be condemning them to a life of homeless poverty instead of prayer and penance. "Inviting" Maciel to this life of prayer and penance is essentially an ecclesiastical plea bargain, nothing more.

[anonymous seminarian]

"Since the Legion and the Movement will be vigorous and will flourish as long as the spirit of our founder is present and active in our lives and behavior, we ask you to open our eyes to the urgency of learning, assimilating and passing on the doctrine, spirit, apostolic methods, genuine traditions, discipline and lifestyle of the Legion and Regnum Christi, just as our founder has made them known to us, since this is our responsibility.

Lord, help us to adhere totally to the charism you inspired in our founder."

Sheesh, thats nothing. Check out the prayer we say to our founder:

"O light of the Church!
Teacher of truth!
Rose of patience!
Ivory of chastity!
You have freely poured forth
The Water of Wisdom:
Preacer of grace,
Unite us to the blessed"

Long live the blessed memory of Holy Father Dominic!

Then again, he seems to be one of those founders Maureen alluded to above who get somewhat marginalized by their own Order.

Anyway...Sherry's right; irregardless of the sins of the founder, the charism of the order might well live on. Time and the Holy Spirit will tell.