The sanctuary of Lourdes, renowned as one of the most frequented Catholic pilgrimage destinations globally, commenced on Monday the process of concealing a collection of mosaics created by a well-known priest with Vatican connections, who faces allegations of sexual abuse.
The mosaics were crafted by Rev. Marko Rupnik, an artist of international repute, who has been accused by approximately 25 individuals, primarily former Catholic nuns, of various forms of misconduct.
Rupnik, who was removed from the Jesuit order in 2023 but retains his status as a priest, has not publicly addressed the allegations. The Vatican reopened an investigation into his behavior in 2023, which is still ongoing.
Rupnik’s mosaics embellish the exterior of the Rosary Basilica in Lourdes, located near the France-Spain border, attracting around five million Catholic pilgrims and other visitors annually who seek the spring water believed to possess healing qualities.
On Monday, workers covered many of the mosaics, as stated by Lourdes Bishop Jean-Marc Micas.
“A new symbolic action was necessary to allow access to the basilica for those who currently feel unable to enter,” the bishop remarked, seemingly referring to victims of clerical abuse.
Previously, Micas had opted against covering the mosaics but decided in July 2024 that they would no longer be illuminated at night.
Laura Sgro, an attorney representing five of Rupnik’s alleged victims, expressed her approval of the decision to cover the artworks.
“Every believer, not just those who have suffered abuse, should be able to pray with an open heart, which is difficult if they must kneel before a piece of art that may have been associated with their trauma,” Sgro stated.
Rupnik’s artwork is believed to embellish around 200 churches and chapels worldwide, including at least one chapel within the Vatican.
Vatican officials have largely refrained from commenting on the allegations, citing the ongoing investigation into Rupnik’s conduct.
Read more: Thousands Protest the Cancellation of the Romanian Election, Demanding a Re-vote.
Cardinal Victor Fernandez, the head of doctrine for the Catholic Church, informed reporters earlier this month that he has begun reaching out to lawyers who may act as judges in a potential Church trial concerning Rupnik.
Last week, the Jesuit order initiated communication with some of Rupnik’s purported victims to begin a process of providing reparations on an individual basis.
Sgro described the letters as a “clear, strong, and concrete gesture,” emphasizing that it represents “a significant step forward.”
