The Bishop of Lourdes has decided to cover the mosaics created by Marko Rupnik on the doors of the Basilica of the Rosary. This decision follows allegations of abuse against Rupnik and aims to make the basilica more welcoming, especially for victims of abuse. The coverings are temporary and feature the words 'With Mary, Pilgrims of Hope 2025' for the Jubilee of Hope. The action is seen as a symbolic step to facilitate entry into the basilica for those who may feel unable to cross the threshold due to the artwork.
27 days ago
The Shrine of Our Lady of Lourdes has covered mosaics created by Fr. Marko Rupnik on the doors of the Basilica of Our Lady of the Rosary 1 2 4 5 6. Rupnik, a former Jesuit priest and artist, faces accusations of spiritual, psychological, and sexual abuse of numerous religious sisters 1 2 4 5 6. These accusations have led to his removal from the Jesuit order and an ongoing canonical trial at the Vatican 1 2 4 5 6. Rupnik's extensive artistic work in churches worldwide, including Lourdes, has created a dilemma for many religious sites 1.
Bishop Jean-Marc Micas of Tarbes and Lourdes announced the decision to cover the mosaics as a "second step," following an earlier decision to stop illuminating them at night 1 4 5 6. The coverings are yellow with crosses and the words “With Mary, Pilgrims of Hope 2025” 1. He explained that this action aims to facilitate entry into the basilica for those who feel unable to cross its threshold due to the abuse allegations against Rupnik 2 4 5 6. Micas also connected the decision to the Jubilee Year, during which the Lourdes shrine is designated as a site for plenary indulgence, and the Memorial Day of Prayer for victims of sexual abuse in the Church of France 1 2 4 5 6.
The decision has been welcomed by alleged victims of Rupnik and their legal representatives 2 4 6. Sr. Samuelle, an alleged victim and mosaic artist, praised Bishop Micas for his clear and constructive action 2 4 6. Laura Sgro, a lawyer representing five alleged victims, expressed "heartfelt thanks" and emphasized the inseparability of Rupnik's art from the abuse he allegedly committed during its creation 2 4 6. Sgro stated that victims should not have to kneel before art that may have been the site of abuse 2 4 6.
The side doors of the basilica were covered on March 31, with the central doors to be covered soon after 1 2 4 5 6. Bishop Micas has established a commission to consider the future of the mosaics, preferring a deliberate approach over external pressures 1 5 6. While the coverings are in place for now, the long-term plan for the mosaics remains under consideration 1 2 4 5 6. The shrine's spokesperson noted that no decision has been made regarding other mosaics in the Basilica 5.
The Catholic Church faces the ongoing challenge of balancing justice with pastoral care, a task that is deeply rooted in its teachings and practices. This balance is essential for the Church's mission to guide souls towards salvation while ensuring that justice is served in accordance with divine law.
Pope John Paul II emphasized that the pastoral and juridical dimensions of the Church are inseparable. He stated that true justice, when enlivened by charity, is inherently pastoral. This means that any exercise of pastoral care must take into account the demands of justice, which cannot be overlooked or denied, even for the sake of compassion. The Church's mission is fundamentally about the salvation of souls, and this mission requires a commitment to both justice and pastoral care.
Pope Benedict XVI further articulated this relationship by asserting that justice and mercy are not opposing forces but rather two aspects of God's love. He noted that for God, justice and charity coincide, and thus, every act of justice must also be an act of love. This perspective encourages a holistic approach where pastoral care is not merely about providing comfort but also about ensuring that justice is served in a manner that respects the dignity of every individual.
In practical terms, the Church's approach to justice and pastoral care can be seen in various contexts, such as ecclesiastical tribunals and health care services. For instance, the Tribunal of the Roman Rota operates under the principle of ministerium iustitiae et caritas in Veritate, which translates to the ministry of justice and charity in truth. This principle guides judges to act with both impartiality and pastoral sensitivity, ensuring that their decisions reflect both the law and the compassionate care expected of a shepherd.
In the realm of health care, the United States Conference of Catholic Bishops highlights the importance of treating individuals with dignity and respect, recognizing their spiritual and physical needs. This approach underscores the Church's commitment to justice in health care, ensuring that all individuals receive the care they deserve while also addressing their spiritual well-being.
Despite the clear teachings, the Church faces challenges in maintaining this balance. There is a risk of misinterpreting pastoral care as a means to bypass justice, leading to what Pope Benedict XVI described as misplaced compassion. The Church must guard against the temptation to prioritize subjective feelings over objective truths, as this can undermine the integrity of both justice and pastoral care.
Moreover, the Church's commitment to justice must not be seen as a rigid application of law devoid of compassion. Instead, it should be viewed as a dynamic interplay where justice serves the greater good of love and mercy, reflecting the nature of God Himself.
In conclusion, the Catholic Church's approach to balancing justice and pastoral care is a reflection of its core mission to serve humanity in truth and love. By recognizing the inseparable nature of these two dimensions, the Church can effectively guide its faithful towards a deeper understanding of God's justice, which is always intertwined with His mercy. This balance is not only essential for the Church's internal governance but also for its witness to the world, demonstrating that true justice is always rooted in love.
The teachings of the Church remind us that justice is not merely a legalistic concept but a vital expression of charity, and that pastoral care must always be informed by the principles of justice. In this way, the Church continues to fulfill its mission as a shepherd to all, leading them towards the fullness of life in Christ.