Born in 1973 in San Martín de los Andes, Cecilia María grew up as one of ten siblings in a military family. Despite the challenges of frequent relocations, she was deeply inspired by the faith she encountered through her family and education. Her calling to the Carmelite order began to take shape during her university years, when the writings of St. Teresa of Ávila awakened in her a desire for intimacy with Christ.

After a winding journey of discernment—including time in two other Carmelite communities—Sister Cecilia María finally found her home in the Carmelite convent of Santa Fe. There, she embraced the contemplative life with a warmth and humanity that would become her hallmark.

 A Life Radiating Joy

Those who knew Sister Cecilia María describe her as a beacon of joy and empathy. Her smile, often visible even in her final days of suffering, became a symbol of her profound spiritual peace. “She had the gift of connecting with people,” recalls Sister Fabiana Guadalupe Retamal, a fellow Carmelite. “Even in her hardest moments, her smile came from the depths of her heart. It wasn’t forced—it was a reflection of her trust in God.”

Sister Cecilia María’s humility extended to her candid self-reflection. In the throes of her illness, she admitted to a fellow nun, “My great sin was doing things my way, my whims. There were times I scared myself with my stubbornness.” Yet even these admissions were accompanied by a characteristic lightheartedness and a readiness to laugh at her own shortcomings.

A Public Witness to Grace in Suffering

In late 2015, during the Advent season and the Jubilee Year of Mercy, Sister Cecilia María received a devastating diagnosis: cancer of the tongue, with metastasis to a lymph node. Despite the pain and grueling treatments, she exuded a sense of peace that astonished those around her.

A poignant image of her, lying in a hospital bed with a serene smile on her face, went viral shortly before her death in June 2016. The photo encapsulated her ability to radiate hope and beauty even in the face of profound suffering. In one of her final letters to her family, she wrote, “I feel the pain growing, but I am not alone. Together, we will follow the Lamb.”

A Legacy of Faith and Intercession

Since her passing, Sister Cecilia María’s reputation for sanctity has only grown. Pilgrims visit her convent, and her intercession is sought by many who are moved by her story. Testimonies of graces and favors received through her prayers are pouring in, contributing to the evidence required for her canonization process.

The beatification process officially commenced with Archbishop Fenoy’s edict on February 14, 2024. The first public session, including a special Mass, will take place on February 23, 2025, at the Carmelite convent of San José and Santa Teresa in Santa Fe.

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The news was accompanied with the announcement that controversial Catalan priest Jordi Bertomeu would execute the dissolution. Father Bertomeu, among others, is facing an accusation before the Peruvian justice system for revealing secreters known by trade.

Among the most immediate challenges for the dissolution is the destiny of the assets and the future of the members. The Sodalitium of Christian Life  (SCL)) was made up of consecrated laymen who took vows and lived in community, also with priests (some 35 of the 120 members with perpetual vows). A possibility would be that of a refoundation. There is also a women’s branch. It’s not known at present if the ban applies also to them.

The Sodalitium of Christian Life was founded in Peru in 1971 by Luis Fernando Figari, a layman that is still alive and who has been condemned canonically for sexual abuses and abuses of conscience.

In 2011 and 2013, accusations came to light of sexual abuse against Figari, both of minors as well as adults. However, the scandal became more important in 2015 with the publication of the book Half Monks, Half Soldiers, which not only exposed the sexual abuses, but also what had been a system of manipulation and coercion within the SCL. This book became a catalyzer for more victims to talk and the mechanism of power and control that Figari used to subject the members of the community.

In 2016 a Commission confirmed the SCL’s abusive practices linked in great part to a cult of personality around Figari. The following year, an independent Report requested by the community itself revealed more than 60 victims of abuse by Figari and other members. The Holy See took forceful measures: in 2017 Figari was prohibited any contact with the SCL, and a process of reform began, supervised by Cardinal Joseph Tobin.

The appointment of Colombian Bishop Noel Antonio Londoño as Commissioner in 2018, and the participation of experts such as Father Gianfranco Ghirlanda, marked the beginning of an integral effort to restructure the government, finances and formation in the SCL This effort included a proposal of reform approved by Pope Francis to rewrite the Institute’s Constitutions.

The process of transformation reached a significant milestone in 2024. In August, the Vatican formally expelled Figari, a decision that had been requested by the SCL itself years before. Shortly after, over ten members of the community were also expelled, including prominent figures such as Archbishop José Antonio Eguren, former leader of the Archdiocese of Piura and Tumbes in Peru.

In July 2023, the Vatican sent Archbishop Charles Scicluna, known for his work on cases of abuse inside the Church, to investigate the new accusations of bad financial management in the SCL.

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The occasion also served as the launchpad for his autobiography, Spera («Hope»), a heartfelt collection of stories that illuminates his character, personality and history.

Announcement of the next governor of the Vatican

In a historic move, Pope Francis announced that Sister Raffaella Petrini, currently serving as Secretary of the Vatican City Governorate, will become its president in March 2025. This appointment makes her the first woman to hold the position, following the retirement of Cardinal Fernando Vérgez Alzaga, LC.

The Pope celebrated the increasing involvement of women in Vatican leadership, citing Sister Simona Brambilla’s recent appointment as Prefect of the Dicastery for Consecrated Life. “Women manage better than we do,” he quipped, acknowledging the transformative role they play within the Church.

A Voice for the Voiceless: Immigration and Justice

Turning to global issues, Pope Francis condemned proposed mass deportations of immigrants in the United States, calling them “a shame” that punishes the most vulnerable. Reflecting on migration as both a challenge and a necessity, he reiterated his “four verbs” for addressing the crisis: welcome, accompany, promote, and integrate.

The pontiff also revisited his urgent call to address declining birthrates, particularly in aging societies like Italy’s. “If you don’t have children, bring in migrants,” he stated, framing immigration as both a moral imperative and a pragmatic solution.

Conflict and Peace: The Middle East and Beyond

The Pope’s reflections on the Middle East carried a sense of cautious optimism. As a fragile ceasefire unfolded in Gaza, he applauded mediators for their efforts and reaffirmed his belief in a two-state solution to the Israeli-Palestinian conflict.

“Peace is greater than war,” he stressed, though he acknowledged the courage required to achieve it. “War is always a defeat,” he added, condemning the arms industry for its role in perpetuating violence.

Jubilee 2025: Anchored in Hope

Hope, the theme of the ongoing Holy Year, emerged as a central thread in the interview. The Pope highlighted the spiritual significance of the Jubilee, recalling his unprecedented opening of the Holy Door at Rebibbia Prison in Rome.

“Never forget the prisoners,” he urged, noting that many incarcerated individuals bear less guilt than those who remain free. His compassionate plea underscored his broader mission of inclusion and mercy.

A Moral Reckoning: Abuse, Forgiveness, and Solidarity

Francis did not shy away from addressing the Church’s internal struggles, including the crisis of abuse. Calling it “a great evil,” he emphasized the need for relentless vigilance.

On the topic of sin, he offered a pastoral perspective, rejecting a narrow focus on “sins of the flesh” and emphasizing God’s boundless capacity for forgiveness. “No sin cannot be forgiven,” he reminded listeners, “because God wants everyone to be with Him.”

Personal Moments and Humor

The Pope also shared lighter anecdotes, including a stumble in the Sistine Chapel immediately after his election in 2013. “The infallible Pope began with a fall!” he joked, displaying his trademark humility.

As the interview concluded, Francis left viewers with a poignant message: “Do not miss this opportunity during the Holy Year. Move forward with courage. And never lose your sense of humor.”

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The Report points out that over 90% of the complaints of abuse compiled occurred before 1990, and only 3% correspond to incidents recorded since 2000. This reflects that the majority of cases happened in a period prior to the efforts of reform implemented over the last decades.

Between 2004 and 2024, there was a total of 16,276 complaints of abuse against minors by clerics and religious. Of these, around 82% were considered credible. Although the impact is devastating, the Report underscores that the majority of the alleged perpetrators are no longer active in ministry: 86% have died, have been laicized or are retired.

Victims and Patterns

The analysis reveals disquieting patterns: four out of five victims were men and more than half were between 10 and 14 years old at the time of the abuse. This information stresses the need to continue working on policies of prevention and accompaniment that protect minors and eradicate the abuse of power and trust.

Economic and Moral Costs

The financial impact of this crisis is colossal. The Dioceses and Religious Orders have disbursed more than US$5 billion (exactly US$5,025, 346, 893) over the last 20 years, the majority destined to compensations for the victims and legal fees. Although insurance companies have covered a part of these costs, their contribution has decreased drastically over the last decade, leaving religious institutions with a greater economic burden.

Reforms and Signs of Hope

Despite the devastating historical scope of the problem, the Report suggests that the reforms implemented since the end of the 20th century are marking a difference. The implementation of stricter policies, such as the “Letter for the Protection of Children and Young People,” adopted in 2002, has contributed to the reduction of recent incidents.

The Report also underscores the crucial role of transparency and of institutional commitment to address the crisis. Although the Catholic Church still faces significant challenges in terms of credibility and public trust, this study offers a basis to continue advancing towards a culture of greater security and responsibility.

Towards a More Secure Future

The decrease in new cases of abuse over the last two decades is a step in the right direction, but it cannot be a motive for complacency. The Catholic Church in the United States faces the constant challenge to guarantee that the errors of the past are not repeated and to offer justice and reparation to the victims.

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Financial Support for Families: A Step Forward

The new measure, announced by the Holy See’s Press Office on January 15, reflects Pope Francis’ ongoing advocacy for family welfare. The bonus will continue until children reach the age of 18 or 24 if they remain in education, aligning Vatican policies with those of several European countries that provide substantial benefits for large families.

The Pope has also expanded paternity leave for Vatican employees from three to five days, marking another effort to support working parents. This change builds on an earlier extension in 2022, when paternity leave increased from one to three days. However, some critics argue that even the updated leave remains modest compared to countries like Italy, where fathers are granted 10 days of paid leave.

Exclusions and Criticisms Spark Debate

Despite the intent, the initiative has drawn criticism for its narrow application. Currently, the bonus only applies to employees of the Governorate of Vatican City State, which includes around 2,000 of the Vatican’s 4,800 staff members. This leaves a significant portion of employees—those working in the Roman Curia and other Vatican institutions—excluded from the benefit.

The Association of Lay Employees of the Vatican (ADLV) expressed cautious optimism, praising the effort but pointing out its limitations. In a public statement, the ADLV emphasized the need for broader inclusion, particularly for families with fewer than three children or those caring for disabled dependents over the age of 18 who cannot attend school.

“The initiative is welcome, but it raises questions of fairness,” the ADLV noted. “All employees should benefit from subsidies and bonuses, regardless of their department or family size.”

Disparities in Employee Benefits

The bonus announcement has also reignited discussions about income disparities within Vatican employment sectors. Employees in high-profile divisions, such as the Vatican Museums, reportedly enjoy better remuneration compared to those in less visible roles. The ADLV highlighted the disparity by contrasting the €300 family bonus with recent €200 Amazon gift cards distributed to employees of the Administration of the Patrimony of the Apostolic See (APSA).

“For some, a financial bonus; for others, a panettone,” the ADLV remarked, referencing the traditional Italian Christmas cake that has been offered to employees as holiday gifts.

The new measures come amid a broader context of financial austerity in Vatican City. Pope Francis recently announced significant budget cuts. Additionally, the Pope has hinted at impending reforms to the Vatican Pension Fund, acknowledging that “difficult decisions” lie ahead.

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A City Beyond the Basilica

While millions of visitors flock annually to St. Peter’s Square, the basilica, and the famed Vatican Museums, much of Vatican City remains strictly off-limits. The heightened restrictions are a response to growing concerns over potential threats and unauthorized incursions into areas vital to the Vatican’s operations, diplomacy, and governance.

The decree, signed by Cardinal Fernando Vérgez, LC, President of the Pontifical Commission for Vatican City State, redefines the legal framework governing access. It emphasizes that Vatican City is not just a pilgrimage site but also a sovereign state with borders that demand respect.

New Penalties: Financial Fines and Prison Sentences

Under the updated rules, fines for unauthorized entry now range from €10,000 to €25,000. In more severe cases—such as entry involving violence, threats, or deceit—offenders face prison terms of one to four years.

Additional sanctions apply to those using expired permits or failing to meet entry requirements, with administrative fines between €2,000 and €5,000. The decree outlines aggravated penalties for offenses involving firearms, corrosive substances, or disguise, as well as for acts committed by groups or individuals in vehicles. In these cases, sentences may increase by up to two-thirds.

Drones and No-Fly Zones

The Vatican’s new legislation also targets unauthorized aerial incursions, reflecting the growing prevalence of drone technology. Violators of the no-fly zone over Vatican City face imprisonment of six months to three years and fines up to €25,000. This measure aims to safeguard sensitive areas and prevent surveillance or potential security breaches from above.

Exclusion Orders and Prolonged Bans

One of the decree’s most notable features is the introduction of long-term bans on reentry. Individuals found guilty of illegal entry may be prohibited from accessing Vatican territory for up to 15 years. Violators of these bans could face further imprisonment ranging from one to five years.

This marks a significant shift in the Vatican’s approach to repeat offenders, underscoring the seriousness of its commitment to territorial integrity.

Swift Justice for Offenders

The decree also accelerates judicial processes for those caught violating these regulations. The Vatican’s promoter of justice is now empowered to summon offenders to appear before the court the day after their arrest or immediately following an interrogation.

Balancing Accessibility and Sovereignty

While the Vatican remains an epicenter of global pilgrimage, these measures highlight the challenges of managing a territory that is both a spiritual hub and a sovereign state. The new laws seek to strike a balance between welcoming the faithful and ensuring that the city-state’s critical operations and sanctity are not compromised.

Cardinal Vérgez emphasized that these regulations are not intended to discourage visitors but to protect the integrity of Vatican City’s mission. “The Vatican’s openness to the world must coexist with the security necessary to preserve its spiritual and administrative heart,” he stated.

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The «AI Guidelines»: A Bold New Framework 

The decree, titled “Guidelines on Artificial Intelligence,” was promulgated by the Pontifical Commission for the Vatican City State and outlines stringent measures to regulate AI applications. Covering 13 comprehensive pages, it not only prohibits discriminatory practices but also safeguards the dignity of individuals while aligning technological advancements with the Vatican’s spiritual mission.

The decree’s scope is limited to the Vatican City State and its dependencies, including institutions governed under the Lateran Treaty, such as papal basilicas and Castel Gandolfo. This distinction highlights its focus on state administration while allowing room for broader doctrinal discussions at the global Church level.

Key Prohibitions and Ethical Mandates 

The regulations go beyond basic governance, addressing critical risks posed by AI:

– Discrimination and Exclusion: The use of AI systems that exclude individuals with disabilities or exacerbate social inequalities is strictly forbidden.

– Anthropological Risks: Systems that draw discriminatory inferences about individuals or compromise human dignity are banned.

– Subliminal Manipulation: Technologies employing manipulative tactics that result in physical or psychological harm are outlawed.

– Mission Integrity: Any AI application conflicting with the Pope’s mission or the Church’s institutional integrity is prohibited.

A Commission to Oversee AI Ethics 

To ensure these guidelines are upheld, the Vatican has established a five-member “AI Commission” comprising legal, IT, and security experts. This body is tasked with:

– Monitoring AI compliance across Vatican institutions.

– Drafting implementing laws to refine the decree’s principles.

– Reviewing AI experimentation proposals to align them with ethical standards.

– Issuing semi-annual reports on AI practices within the Vatican’s jurisdiction.

The commission’s structure ensures a rigorous, multidisciplinary approach to governance, echoing the ethical considerations advocated in the Vatican’s prior “Rome Call for AI Ethics.”

Transparency and Accountability at the Core

The decree underscores the importance of transparency in AI. Systems deployed within the Vatican must clearly label AI-generated content, distinguishing machine outputs from human creativity. Furthermore, copyright over AI-generated works will remain with the Vatican, safeguarding intellectual property and ethical boundaries.

It also mandates that decision-making authority in Vatican institutions must remain with human administrators, preserving accountability and preventing over-reliance on automated systems.

Sector-Specific Regulations 

The decree tailors its provisions to sectors crucial to Vatican operations:

– Healthcare: AI systems must prioritize patient safety and equitable access to services.

– Cultural Heritage: Technologies preserving art and historical artifacts must align with ethical stewardship.

– Judiciary: AI is limited to research functions in Vatican courts, leaving legal interpretation solely to human judges.

Papal Advocacy for Ethical AI 

Pope Francis has long been a proponent of ethical technology. His calls for international treaties to regulate AI and his advocacy for banning autonomous weapons reflect a consistent commitment to prioritizing humanity over technological expediency.

Informed by the 2020 “Rome Call for AI Ethics,” the Vatican’s decree aligns with global best practices, such as the European Union’s AI regulations. Yet it also infuses these guidelines with a unique moral perspective, recognizing technology as both a divine gift and a human responsibility.

The decree is just the beginning of a broader regulatory journey. By the end of 2025, additional legislation is expected to refine and expand the Vatican’s AI governance framework.

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AI Ethics: A Vatican Priority 

The Vatican’s latest foray into AI ethics began with the publication of its “Guidelines on Artificial Intelligence” at the close of 2024, a document designed to govern the responsible use of AI within the confines of the Vatican City State. These guidelines will soon be supported by detailed legislation and regulatory frameworks to ensure their practical application.

On a global level, the Holy See is set to release a pivotal document on the ethical challenges of AI later this month. Announced by Cardinal Víctor Manuel Fernández, Prefect of the Dicastery for the Doctrine of the Faith, the text is a collaborative effort with the Dicastery for Culture and Education. It aims to tackle the moral and societal implications of AI’s rapid evolution.

This initiative is part of an ongoing journey that began in 2016, when the Vatican hosted high-level discussions involving scientists, ethicists, and technology leaders to explore the ethical dimensions of emerging technologies. In 2020, the Pontifical Academy for Life partnered with IBM and Microsoft to launch the “Rome Call for AI Ethics,” which championed principles like transparency, inclusivity, and accountability in algorithmic development.

In subsequent years, the Vatican continued to emphasize the importance of ethical AI through publications like a 140-page ethics manual for the tech industry, released in collaboration with the University of Santa Clara’s Institute for Technology, Ethics, and Culture.

Pope Francis himself has been a vocal advocate for ensuring that AI serves humanity ethically. In his 2023 World Day of Peace message, he urged the global community to prioritize justice and peace in AI governance, warning against the risks of discrimination and inequality.

New Laws for the Vatican City State 

In a landmark move, the Vatican recently enacted its first AI-focused legislation. The new laws prohibit discriminatory uses of AI and establish a special commission to oversee experimentation with emerging technologies. These regulations apply to Vatican state institutions, setting a standard for ethical governance while offering a model for broader international cooperation.

AI is just one of several pressing topics the Vatican is addressing through doctrinal and societal documents. Cardinal Fernández has confirmed additional texts are in development:

– Marriage and Monogamy: A reaffirmation of the Church’s teachings on the sanctity and exclusivity of marriage, especially in the context of modern challenges.

– Modern Slavery: A comprehensive exploration of historical and contemporary slavery, focusing on human trafficking, forced labor, and child exploitation.

– The Role of Women in the Church: A document that seeks to elevate and clarify the contributions of women within ecclesiastical and societal structures.

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A Case Frozen in Time

Circuit Court Judge David Reddy of Walworth County determined that McCarrick’s case, linked to a 1977 incident near Lake Geneva, would remain in legal limbo. “The court will not schedule further reviews, and the case will remain suspended until the defendant’s death,” Reddy stated. The ruling aligns with Wisconsin state laws, which prohibit formal dismissals in cases involving defendants deemed unfit for trial.

The alleged victim, James Grein, has been a vocal advocate for justice, claiming that McCarrick began abusing him at the age of 11 and continued the assaults over several years. The Wisconsin case was one of the few within the statute of limitations, offering a rare opportunity for criminal prosecution. However, McCarrick’s health has placed that possibility beyond reach.

A Pattern of Allegations 

McCarrick, who once held the distinction of being the Archbishop of Washington, D.C., was defrocked in 2019 after a Vatican investigation substantiated multiple allegations of sexual abuse against minors and adults. Since 2018, numerous survivors have come forward with claims of abuse spanning decades, revealing a dark legacy of predatory behavior by the former cardinal.

Despite these revelations, the statute of limitations has shielded McCarrick from prosecution in most jurisdictions. In August 2023, a Massachusetts court dismissed another sexual assault case against him due to similar findings of cognitive impairment. With the Wisconsin case now suspended, McCarrick faces no active criminal charges in the United States.

A Legacy of Betrayal

For many survivors, the inability to see McCarrick face trial is a profound disappointment. Grein, who has been an outspoken critic of the Church’s handling of abuse allegations, has accused McCarrick of a pattern of manipulation and betrayal that extended beyond the confines of the Wisconsin case. “This isn’t just about one act—it’s about decades of harm,” Grein has stated in previous interviews.

Justice Delayed, Not Denied? 

Legal experts note that McCarrick’s inability to stand trial does not absolve him of responsibility. “The judicial system may not deliver a verdict, but the evidence and survivor testimonies have already shaped the public record,” said one legal analyst.

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Sister Simona Brambilla’s Journey 

Born in Italy, Sister Simona Brambilla will celebrate her 60th birthday on March 27. Her extensive career is a testament to her dedication and leadership. Before her current role, she served as Superior General of the Missionary Sisters of Consolata for over a decade and worked as a missionary in Mozambique. A professional nurse by training, Sister Brambilla joined the Missionary Sisters of Consolata and quickly rose through, demonstrating a unique blend of compassion and administrative acumen.

In October 2023, she was appointed Secretary of the Dicastery, laying the groundwork for her promotion to Prefect just a few months later. This appointment builds on the precedent set by Pope Francis in 2021 when Sister Alessandra Smerilli was named Secretary of the Dicastery for Promoting Integral Human Development.

A Broader Vision for Women’s Leadership

Pope Francis’s papacy has been a catalyst for change in the Vatican’s approach to gender inclusivity. Since 2013, the representation of women in the Vatican workforce has increased from 19.2% to 23.4%, reflecting a deliberate shift toward broader participation. This transformation was solidified in 2022 with the apostolic constitution “Praedicate Evangelium”, which opened leadership roles, including those of dicastery prefects, to laypeople—women included.

Notable Women Leaders in Vatican Governance

Sister Brambilla’s appointment joins a growing list of women who have taken on influential roles under Pope Francis:

– Barbara Jatta was named Director of the Vatican Museums in 2016, becoming the first woman to hold this prestigious position.

– Sister Raffaella Petrini, appointed in 2022, serves as Secretary General of the Vatican’s Governatorate, a role traditionally reserved for bishops.

– Other key figures include Gabriella Gambino and Lina Ghisoni in the Dicastery for Laity, Family, and Life, and Cristiane Murray, Deputy Director of the Holy See Press Office.

These appointments reflect a deliberate effort to integrate women’s perspectives into Vatican decision-making processes, enhancing the Church’s ability to address contemporary challenges.

Pope Francis’s Vision for the Church

In her new role, Sister Brambilla will oversee the spiritual and organizational life of thousands of religious communities worldwide. Her leadership will undoubtedly inspire other women in the Church, affirming that their contributions are not just welcome but essential to its mission.

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