A Canadian judge has rejected Fr. Thomas Rosica's petition to dismiss a sexual assault lawsuit against him. The judge stated the claim is not primarily doctrinal or ecclesiastical, but of interest to all Canadians. The court determined that a canonical court lacks adequate mechanisms for addressing damages in sexual assault cases. Fr. Rosica, a prominent figure in Catholic media, denies the allegations. The lawsuit was filed in Ontario in March 2024, alleging Rosica developed a mentoring relationship with a newly ordained priest and invited him to assist in preparations for the 2002 World Youth Day.
4 months ago
A Canadian judge has rejected a motion by prominent Catholic media figure Fr. Thomas Rosica to dismiss a sexual assault lawsuit against him, ruling that the case will proceed in civil court rather than being confined to a canonical court 1. Judge Evelyn M. ten Cate of the Superior Court of Justice of Ontario determined that the plaintiff's claim is not "essentially doctrinal or ecclesiastical in nature" and holds interest for all Canadians beyond internal Church matters 1. The judge further noted that canonical courts lack the mechanisms to award punitive or aggravated damages, make findings of vicarious liability, or enforce judgments in such cases 1.
The lawsuit, filed in March 2024, was brought by Fr. Michael Bechard of the Diocese of London, Ontario, who initially filed under a pseudonym 1. Bechard alleges that Rosica developed a mentoring relationship with him in the late 1990s, leveraging his position of authority and trust, particularly during preparations for the 2002 World Youth Day 1. The suit claims Rosica made unwanted physical contact, exposed himself, and repeatedly groped and fondled Bechard's genitalia, using his influence to ensure the plaintiff's silence 1. Rosica, who was ordained in 1986, denies the allegations, stating he had only "infrequent ministerial contact" with Bechard and did not engage in any improper conduct 1.
The lawsuit also implicates Rosica's religious order, the Congregation of St. Basil, alleging a failure to properly supervise him and a disregard for complaints about his inappropriate interactions with young men 1. In March 2024, the order removed Rosica's faculties for priestly ministry, though he was subsequently listed as a facilitator for various retreat events into 2025 1. Fr. Thomas Rosica was a significant figure in Catholic media, founding Salt+Light Television, serving as a Vatican advisor, and acting as a Vatican spokesman 1. Notably, he participated in the Vatican's 2019 global summit on clerical sexual abuse, where he emphasized that the problem could not be ignored 1. Rosica's prominence diminished in 2019 following reports of widespread plagiarism in his published works, which he attributed to a "lack of oversight" 1.
What is the Church's teaching on sexual abuse?
The Catholic Church unequivocally condemns sexual abuse as a grave sin and a crime that causes immense harm to victims, the Church, and society. The Church's teaching on sexual abuse is rooted in its understanding of human dignity, the sanctity of life, and the moral law.
Sexual abuse is a profound violation of the fifth and sixth commandments, which protect human life and the dignity of the person, particularly in matters of sexuality. It is an act that inflicts deep spiritual, psychological, and emotional wounds upon the victim, often with long-lasting consequences. The Church recognizes that sexual abuse is not merely a private sin but also a public scandal that undermines the credibility of its mission and the trust placed in its ministers.
The Holy See and various episcopal conferences have adopted a "zero tolerance" policy regarding sexual abuse by clergy and Church personnel. This policy mandates that all credible allegations of abuse be investigated thoroughly and that perpetrators be removed from ministry and, where appropriate, reported to civil authorities. Pope Francis has emphasized that there is "no place in the Church" for those who commit abuse.
A central tenet of the Church's teaching is the paramount importance of protecting minors and vulnerable adults from harm. The Church acknowledges its moral and legal responsibility to create safe environments for children and to ensure that those who work with them are properly vetted and trained. This commitment is reflected in various guidelines and norms, such as the "Vos Estis Lux Mundi" motu proprio, which establishes universal procedures for reporting and investigating allegations of abuse against clerics and religious.
The Church emphasizes the need for justice and healing for victims of sexual abuse. This includes providing pastoral care, psychological support, and spiritual guidance to survivors. The Church also encourages victims to report abuse to civil authorities and cooperates with law enforcement in investigations. Restorative justice principles are increasingly being explored to address the harm caused by abuse and to facilitate reconciliation where possible.
The Church is committed to greater accountability and transparency in addressing sexual abuse. This involves holding bishops and religious superiors accountable for their actions and omissions in handling abuse cases. The establishment of independent review boards and the publication of statistics on abuse allegations are steps taken to increase transparency and rebuild trust.
Prevention is a key aspect of the Church's response to sexual abuse. This includes comprehensive education and formation programs for clergy, religious, and lay personnel on safeguarding, boundaries, and ethical conduct. Awareness campaigns are also conducted to educate parents, children, and the wider community about the dangers of abuse and how to report it.
In summary, the Church's teaching on sexual abuse is a comprehensive and evolving response that prioritizes the protection of the vulnerable, the pursuit of justice, the healing of victims, and the accountability of perpetrators and those in authority. It is a continuous effort to confront this grave evil and to ensure that the Church is a safe and holy place for all.