Summary
Pope Leo met with members of the Legion of Christ order on Thursday at the Vatican, during their general chapter meeting. He emphasized that this gathering was a “time of grace” for listening to the Holy Spirit and for renewal. The Pope did not directly address the Legion’s painful experiences related to its founder, Marcial Maciel (1920-2008), who was later found guilty of multiple cases of sexual abuse and fraud. Leo acknowledged that the order emerged through various paths with often difficult and controversial manifestations throughout history. He encouraged the community to remember their heritage while opening themselves up to “constant renewal in the present,” maintaining fidelity to the Gospel. Currently, approximately 1000 priests are part of the Legion worldwide, with about half serving in Mexico and North America. The Pope commented on how authority in monastic life means service to those who share a vocation, emphasizing that control must not diminish the dignity and freedom of individuals. He called for leadership styles characterized by “mutual listening, shared responsibility, transparency, brotherly closeness, and communal discernment.” Finally, Leo wished the Legion a time of hope as God would provide healing and purification.
Key Topics
Vatican City, Legionäre Christi, Marcial Maciel
