VATICAN CITY — In a move that marks a return to tradition, Pope Leo XIV is set to begin a six-week summer retreat at Castel Gandolfo this weekend. This will be his first break since his election on May 8, a period during which he has maintained a low profile, choosing to lead the Catholic Church with humility and reserve. The retreat offers the pontiff a chance to escape the sweltering Roman heat and tackle pressing issues facing the Church.
Pope Leo XIV, known for his methodical and diligent approach, is expected to use this time to delve into several critical dossiers. These include significant appointments within the Vatican, addressing financial deficits, and handling high-profile clergy sex abuse cases. His retreat to the papal summer residence on Lake Alban, south of Rome, signals a return to a tradition abandoned by his predecessor, Pope Francis.
Leadership Decisions Await
Upon his election, Pope Leo reappointed all Vatican prefects temporarily, maintaining the status quo within the Holy See. However, key appointments are pending, including the selection of a new prefect for the office that vets bishop nominations and a new Vatican secretary of state. Cardinal Pietro Parolin currently holds the latter position, a role akin to a prime minister, but was a contender in the conclave that elected Leo.
The pontiff’s leadership style reflects his background as a careful manager who prefers to read full reports rather than summaries. This thoroughness will be crucial as he addresses the Vatican’s structural deficit, estimated at 50 to 60 million euros, and a 1 billion euro shortfall in its pension fund.
Addressing Clergy Abuse and Legal Challenges
One of the most pressing issues on Pope Leo’s agenda is the Church’s ongoing struggle with clergy sex abuse scandals. As the first American pope, he is acutely aware of the devastation these scandals have caused, particularly in the United States. Leo has emphasized the urgency of creating a culture of prevention within the Church, with zero tolerance for abuse of any kind.
A particularly sensitive case involves Rev. Marko Rupnik, a renowned mosaic artist accused of abusing two dozen adult women and nuns. Although the case does not involve minors, it has become a significant issue due to allegations of preferential treatment under Pope Francis. The case is now being revisited with external canon lawyers.
Another legal matter involves Cardinal Angelo Becciu and the so-called “trial of the century,” concerning a failed 350 million euro investment in London property. Becciu was convicted of financial crimes, but the trial has been criticized for alleged procedural irregularities. Pope Leo, a canon lawyer himself, must navigate this complex situation carefully to maintain the tribunal’s independence while addressing Becciu’s ambiguous status within the Church.
Unity, Reconciliation, and Future Travels
Pope Leo has prioritized unity and reconciliation within the Church, particularly concerning liturgical divisions over the Latin Mass. This issue has been contentious, especially in the U.S., where Pope Francis’ restrictions on the ancient liturgy have caused friction. Cardinal Raymond Burke, a prominent conservative voice, has urged Pope Leo to restore the situation as it was under Pope Benedict XVI.
Looking ahead, Pope Leo has expressed interest in addressing the ethical implications of artificial intelligence, hinting at a potential papal document on the subject. Additionally, his travel plans include a possible visit to Turkey in November to mark the 1,700th anniversary of the Council of Nicea. Invitations from various global leaders, including Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelenskyy and U.S. Vice President JD Vance, are also under consideration.
The Return to Castel Gandolfo
The town of Castel Gandolfo eagerly anticipates Pope Leo’s return to the papal summer residence, which Pope Francis had opted not to use. The local economy, once impacted by the absence of a resident pope, has since adapted by opening the papal palace and gardens to the public as a museum. However, residents welcome the prospect of Leo’s presence, recalling the many encyclicals penned by previous popes at the retreat.
As Pope Leo XIV settles into his summer retreat, the Church and the world watch closely to see how he will address these complex challenges. His decisions in the coming weeks could shape the future of the Catholic Church and its global influence.
“Remember, many encyclicals were written here,” noted the Rev. Tadeusz Rozmus, the town’s parish priest, highlighting the significance of Castel Gandolfo as a place of reflection and decision-making.
