The Vatican has officially suppressed the Sodality of Christian Life (SCV), along with related lay movements. This decision follows investigations into allegations of abuse and a determination that the movement lacked authentic spiritual gifts. The decree of suppression was signed by the superior general, José David Correa. Monsignor Jordi Bertomeu Farnós has been appointed as apostolic commissioner to oversee the implementation. The suppression also includes ending everything founded by Luis Fernando Figari.
about 2 months ago
The Vatican has formally suppressed the Sodality of Christian Life (SCV), a Peru-based lay movement, along with all institutions founded by Luis Fernando Figari 1 2. The decree, signed by Superior General José David Correa on April 14, 2025, officially dissolves the SCV 1 5. This action follows an investigation ordered by Pope Francis 1 2.
Founded in Lima, Peru, in 1971 by Luis Fernando Figari, the SCV gained pontifical recognition from St. John Paul II in 1997 4. The movement expanded across Latin America, including a presence in the United States starting in 2003 1 4 5. The SCV also included the Marian Fraternity of Reconciliation, the Servants of God’s Plan, and the Christian Life Movement, all of which are now dissolved 1 2.
The dissolution was motivated by a lack of divine charism in the founder and widespread allegations of abuse 1 2. These allegations include sexual abuse of minors and adults, psychological abuse, abuse of power, and financial corruption 1 4 5. A 2017 internal investigation confirmed members, including Figari, were responsible for these abuses 4.
Pope Francis initiated an investigation into the SCV, leading to its suppression 1 2. Monsignor Jordi Bertomeu Farnós was appointed as apostolic commissioner to oversee the implementation of the dissolution 1 4. Figari was expelled from the SCV in August 2024 due to the accusations of violence 1 5. Archbishop Charles Scicluna also played a key role in the investigations 1.
The SCV expressed "sorrow and obedience" in response to the Vatican's decision 1 2 5. The organization also acknowledged its history of abuse and requested forgiveness from the victims, the Church, and society 1 5. The SCV reported providing reparations to 83 victims between May 2016 and December 2024, including financial compensation, therapy, and academic support 1 5. Assets from the dissolved institutions will be used to compensate victims and support former members 1.
How does the Church address failures in religious movements?
The Catholic Church has established procedures and principles for addressing failures within religious movements, such as the recent suppression of the Sodality of Christian Life (SCV). These mechanisms aim to uphold justice, ensure accountability, and promote healing and reform.
When allegations of misconduct or failures within a religious movement arise, the Church initiates investigations to ascertain the truth and extent of the issues. These investigations can be prompted by various factors, including reports of abuse, financial irregularities, or doctrinal deviations. The Vatican may appoint an apostolic commissioner to oversee the investigation and, if necessary, to implement reforms or even dissolve the organization. The appointment of Monsignor Jordi Bertomeu Farnós as apostolic commissioner in the SCV case exemplifies this intervention.
Based on the findings of the investigation, the Church may impose canonical penalties on individuals responsible for misconduct. These penalties can range from warnings and censures to suspension from ministry or even expulsion from the religious institute. In cases of severe and systemic failures, such as the widespread abuse and lack of divine charism found in the SCV, the Vatican may decree the dissolution of the entire organization. This decision reflects the Church's commitment to safeguarding the well-being of its members and upholding the integrity of religious life.
In addition to imposing penalties and dissolving organizations, the Church emphasizes the importance of providing reparations to victims of abuse and promoting reconciliation. This includes offering financial compensation, therapy, and other forms of support to help victims heal from their trauma. The SCV's efforts to provide reparations to 83 victims between 2016 and 2024 demonstrate this commitment. The Church also seeks to ensure financial accountability by directing assets from dissolved institutions to compensate victims and support former members. The ultimate goal is to foster justice, healing, and reconciliation within the Church and society.
The Church's response to failures in religious movements involves a multi-faceted approach that includes investigation, intervention, canonical penalties, dissolution when necessary, and a strong emphasis on reparations and reconciliation. These actions underscore the Church's commitment to accountability, justice, and the well-being of its members, as seen in the case of the Sodality of Christian Life.