Pope Francis has ordered the suppression of the Sodalitium Christianae Vitae, a lay movement based in Peru, along with three related groups, following decades of abuse allegations and a thorough Vatican investigation.
“In light of an investigation commissioned by Pope Francis on July 5, 2023, it was decided to suppress both the Societies of Apostolic Life of the Sodalitium Christianae Vitae and the Fraternidad Mariana de la Reconciliación (Marian Community of Reconciliation), as well as the Associations of the Faithful Siervas del Plan de Dios (Servants of the Plan of God) and Movimiento de Vida Cristiana (Christian Life Movement),” the Vatican shared on Tuesday.
The Sodalitium was founded in 1971 by Peruvian layman Luis Fernando Figari and received official recognition from Pope John Paul II in 1997. It later expanded internationally, setting up a base in the United States in 2003, with the support of Archbishop Charles Chaput in Denver. However, a 2017 internal investigation revealed that multiple members, including Figari, were involved in acts of sexual, psychological, and physical abuse.
In 2023, the Vatican's review led to the expulsion of ten individuals, including Figari, for severe misconduct, including "sadism and violence," spiritual abuse, coercive control, and covering up criminal acts. Monsignor Jordi Bertomeu has been appointed apostolic commissioner to ensure the Pope's decision is carried out and the four groups are formally closed.
“We accept this decision with sorrow and obedience, specifically approved by Pope Francis, which brings our society to an end,” Sodalitium said in a statement after the decree was signed.
“Our thoughts also go out to the victims, and we once again offer our sincere apologies for the mistreatment and abuse that took place within our community.”
