The publication of the book El pastor y los lobos, by Peruvian writer Santiago Roncagliolo, once again focuses on one of the least known stages of the career of Robert Francis Prevost, now Pope Leo XIV. The work reviews the process that led to the ecclesiastical intervention regarding the Sodalicio de Vida Cristiana, one of the most questioned institutions in the Latin American Church due to numerous reports of sexual, psychological, and power abuse.
Although the book adopts a narrative format, its interest transcends the biographical. Roncagliolo reconstructs the context in which Prevost held governance responsibilities in Peru and describes how an ecclesiastical response was consolidated that ended up supporting the Vatican’s investigations and the subsequent dissolution of the Sodalicio.
The case represented one of the biggest scandals in the Peruvian Church in recent decades. For years, numerous victims denounced not only sexual abuse but also dynamics of spiritual manipulation, psychological control, and abuse of authority. The action of the Holy See evolved until it adopted increasingly forceful measures, culminating in the decision to extinguish the institution.
The figure of Prevost has awakened a special interest since his election as Leo XIV. Various analysts consider that his direct experience in managing such a complex crisis can help understand some of the priorities of his pontificate, especially regarding child protection, victim care, and accountability within the Church.
Beyond the historical account, the book invites reflection on a change in ecclesial culture. For decades, many abuse cases remained hidden or were addressed slowly. The Peruvian experience shows, according to various observers, the importance of listening to victims, investigating independently, and positioning transparency as an essential condition for recovering the Church’s credibility.
Sources consulted
Book El pastor y los lobos, by Santiago Roncagliolo.
Communiqués and documentation from the Vatican regarding the Sodalicio de Vida Cristiana.
Public information on the pastoral career of Robert Francis Prevost in Peru.