Full Breakdown
Vatican Denies Acquittal in Ongoing Canonical Trial of Marko Ivan Rupnik
7/23/2026, 6:55:00 AM
Background of the Abuse Allegations
Former Jesuit priest and internationally known mosaic artist Marko Ivan Rupnik, 71, has been accused by more than 20 women—most of them former nuns—of sexual, spiritual and psychological abuse dating back to the 1990s. Specific allegations include forcing a former nun, Gloria Branciani, to engage in three-way sexual activity and to accompany him to pornographic movie theatres. The Jesuit order expelled Rupnik in 2023 after deeming the accusations “very highly credible.” Earlier, in 2020, the order briefly excommunicated him for using the confessional to grant absolution to a woman with whom he had sexual relations.
Current Status of the Canonical Trial
On July 22, the Vatican press office issued a statement rejecting recent media reports that an acquittal had been reached. The office described those reports as “totally unfounded” and confirmed that the canonical trial remains active. Judges are still examining documentation supplied by dioceses, the Jesuit order, the parties concerned and the press. The Vatican emphasizes that confidentiality is required to protect the integrity of the process and the privacy of those involved, and it has barred the release of any information about ongoing proceedings.
Reactions from Victims’ Representatives and Critics
Laura Sgro, lawyer for five of the alleged victims, criticized the lack of transparency, noting that her clients have not been interviewed by the tribunal and that victims are classified only as third-party witnesses under current canon law. Maria Campatelli, director of the Rome-based Aletti Center founded by Rupnik, described the accusations as “defamatory and unproven” and likened the media coverage to a form of “lynching.” Supporters of Rupnik have repeatedly denied the allegations.
Vatican’s Procedural Adjustments
Pope Francis intervened in 2023 by waiving the statute of limitations on the older complaints, enabling the present canonical trial to proceed despite the Vatican’s earlier decision to decline prosecution of the older claims on the grounds of age and the adult status of the alleged victims.
Outlook
The tribunal retains authority to request additional evidence and to call witnesses as the investigation continues. No verdict has been issued, and the Vatican has indicated that further updates will be provided when the judicial process permits.
