Pope Leo Initiates Action to Tackle Clergy Abuse Issues

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Pope Leo XIV Appoints New Leader for Vatican Commission on Clergy Sexual Abuse

On Saturday, Pope Leo XIV appointed Thibault Verny, a 59-year-old archbishop from France, as the new president of the Vatican’s commission addressing clergy sexual abuse. This marks the Pope’s first significant public action in addressing a crisis that has severely undermined the Church’s global reputation.

Verny will continue to serve as the archbishop of Chambéry in southeastern France while taking on this critical role. The commission, established by Pope Francis in 2014, was part of a response to ongoing sexual abuse scandals that have plagued the Church around the world.

These scandals have tarnished the Church’s image as a moral authority, triggered numerous lawsuits amounting to millions of dollars, and led to multiple bishop resignations. Verny has committed to enhancing safeguarding practices within the Church.

“We will strive to ensure equitable resource distribution so that all parts of the Church, no matter their location or situation, can adhere to the highest standards of protection,” he stated in a public announcement.

Verny succeeds Cardinal Sean O’Malley, the former archbishop of Boston, who had been serving past the Church’s traditional retirement age of 80. O’Malley had led the commission since its inception.

While several victims have lauded the commission’s initiatives, it has also faced challenges, including multiple member resignations. In 2023, a well-known Jesuit priest and papal advisor resigned, expressing concerns about the commission’s functioning.

Verny was appointed to the commission by Pope Francis in 2022 and has played a significant role in the French Church’s efforts to safeguard minors. O’Malley commended Verny’s appointment, calling him “a collaborative leader dedicated to promoting the global implementation of protection measures to ensure the safety of those under the Church’s care worldwide.”