>> Continue to this story on Catholic Culture by Philip E. Lawler, Ph.D.
BPNF Summary Note: In 2012, a three-cardinal commission, led by Cardinals Herranz, Tomko, and DeGiorgi, investigated a scandal known as “Vatileaks,” which involved the leak of confidential documents. Their report was submitted to Pope Benedict, but its conclusions were not made public. The commission reportedly identified the existence of a corrupt group known as the “lavender mafia” within the Roman Curia.
After delivering their report, the cardinals continued their research and met with Pope Benedict again in December 2012. Pope Benedict announced his resignation soon after, citing declining strength and old age. However, some observers wondered whether his decision was also motivated by the need for a younger, more energetic Pontiff to tackle corruption within the Vatican.
When Pope Francis was elected in 2013, he met with his predecessor and was handed a large white box containing documents. The new Pope revealed in his autobiography that the box contained a dossier related to cases of abuse, corruption, dark dealings, and wrongdoings. He stated that Pope Benedict had told him it was “your turn” to confront the mess.
Despite having held the position for nearly twelve years, Pope Francis has not mentioned the three cardinals’ report or attacked the sources of corruption. The article suggests that a future Pope should search for and read the dossier, and then establish a new commission to investigate how corruption has spread since 2013.
The above note summarizes details in the original source (link above).
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