The Bishop of Lourdes has ordered the covering of Marko Rupnik's mosaics on the doors of the Basilica of Our Lady of the Rosary. This decision was made to make the basilica more welcoming, especially for victims of abuse. The action is a symbolic step to facilitate entry into the basilica. The covering of the doors was timed to coincide with the Jubilee Year and the Memorial Day of Prayer for victims of sexual abuse. The shrine is also continuing a commission to determine the long-term plan for the Rupnik artwork.
26 days ago
Marko Rupnik, a former Jesuit priest and artist, has been accused of spiritual, psychological, and sexual abuse of numerous women 1 2 3 5 7. These accusations have led to a canonical trial and have raised questions about the presence of his artwork in various religious sites 1 2 3 5 7. Rupnik's artistic work, including mosaics, can be found in over 200 liturgical spaces worldwide 2.
Bishop Jean-Marc Micas of Tarbes and Lourdes announced the decision to cover the mosaics created by Marko Rupnik on the doors of the Basilica of Our Lady of the Rosary 1 2 3 5 6 7. The side doors were covered on March 31, 2025, and the central doors are to be covered soon 1 2 3 5 6 7. This decision aims to facilitate access to the Basilica for those who feel unable to cross its threshold due to the presence of Rupnik's work 1 2 3 5 6 7. Bishop Micas described this as a "new symbolic step" 1 2 6. The decision is also linked to the Jubilee Year, with the Lourdes Shrine designated as a location for observing the Jubilee and obtaining a plenary indulgence 1 2 3 5 6 7. Bishop Micas emphasized that passing through the Basilica's doors should reflect the symbolic significance of the moment 1 2 3 5 6 7.
The decision has been welcomed by victims of Rupnik and their representatives 3 5 7. Laura Sgro, the lawyer representing five alleged victims, expressed "joy in our hearts" and gratitude to Bishop Micas 3 5 7. An alleged victim, Sister Samuelle, praised the bishop for his clear and constructive actions 3 5 7. Marlene Watkins, the leader of the North American Lourdes Volunteers, also supported the decision 2. They see this as a courageous step that makes it easier for victims to enter the Basilica 2 3 5 7.
Bishop Micas has established a working group to support his decision-making process regarding the mosaics 1 6 7. He stated that they prefer to proceed with careful deliberation rather than succumbing to external pressures 1 6 7. The bishop has acknowledged that removing the mosaics will eventually be necessary 3 5 7. The Shrine is working for the long term, considering the victims, the Church, and the message of Lourdes 1 2 6 7.
The Catholic Church navigates the complexities of justice and pastoral care by recognizing them as interconnected dimensions of love and truth . Justice, understood as giving each person their due, is tempered and perfected by mercy, especially in situations involving harm and reconciliation . Pastoral care seeks to heal wounds, offer support, and promote reconciliation, particularly for those who have suffered abuse .
Bishop Micas' decision to cover the Rupnik mosaics at the Basilica of Our Lady of the Rosary in Lourdes exemplifies the Church's effort to balance justice and pastoral care. The bishop's action acknowledges the pain and trauma experienced by victims of Marko Rupnik, who have accused him of spiritual, psychological, and sexual abuse . By covering the mosaics, Bishop Micas is creating a more welcoming and safe space for those who might be further traumatized by the presence of Rupnik's artwork . This prioritizes the pastoral care of abuse survivors, recognizing their need for healing and a sense of sanctuary .
The Church emphasizes the importance of listening to and supporting victims of abuse . Pope Francis has stressed the need for the Church to acknowledge the suffering of victims, offer them support, and ensure preventative measures are in place . Bishop Micas' decision aligns with this call, as it directly responds to the concerns of victims and their representatives, who have welcomed the move as a courageous step toward healing . The act of covering the mosaics can be seen as a concrete expression of compassion and a commitment to creating a safe environment for vulnerable individuals .
While prioritizing the pastoral care of victims, the Church also recognizes the importance of justice and accountability . Reconciliation requires acknowledging the harm caused, seeking truth, and ensuring that those responsible are held accountable . Bishop Micas' establishment of a working group to deliberate on the future of the mosaics demonstrates a commitment to careful and considered decision-making, balancing the needs of all parties involved . The eventual removal of the mosaics, as acknowledged by the bishop, suggests a recognition that justice requires addressing the lasting impact of Rupnik's actions and ensuring that the Basilica reflects the values of the Church .
The decision by the Bishop of Lourdes to cover the Rupnik mosaics reflects the Catholic Church's complex task of balancing justice and pastoral care. By prioritizing the well-being of abuse victims and creating a safe space for healing, the bishop's actions demonstrate a commitment to the Church's mission of reconciliation and justice. This approach acknowledges the pain of the past while paving the way for a more just and compassionate future.