Rupnik's alleged victims tell pope they feel 'silenced' over ongoing trial

Alleged victims of Marko Rupnik have written to Pope Leo, complaining about what they describe as continued "silences" surrounding the trial of the artist and former Jesuit priest, according to a report by ANSA.

The letter marks the first communication of its kind sent to Pope Leo on the matter, according to the report, with the alleged victims expressing frustration over the church's handling of the case as it proceeds.

ANSA's report noted that covering up works at Lourdes linked to Rupnik had been described as a courageous act, but the alleged victims say this step is not enough, arguing that reticence about the broader case continues.

The Rupnik case has drawn significant attention within the Catholic Church in recent years, involving allegations against a prominent religious artist whose mosaics and other works have appeared in numerous churches and religious sites internationally.

The report did not provide further detail on the specific demands made in the letter or on any response from the Vatican regarding the alleged victims' concerns about the pace or transparency of the ongoing proceedings.