Pope Leo XIV meets author exposing Opus Dei's dark money and trafficking claims
Pope Leo XIV meets author exposing Opus Dei's dark money and trafficking claims
Pope Leo XIV meets author exposing Opus Dei's dark money and trafficking claims
Pope Leo XIV has met with Gareth Gore, the author of a book exposing alleged abuses within Opus Dei. The discussion centred on claims of financial misconduct, human trafficking, and labour exploitation detailed in Opus: The Cult of Dark Money, Human Trafficking and Right-Wing Conspiracy Inside the Catholic Church. The Pope has already taken steps to reform the organisation's structure following earlier controversies.
Gareth Gore's book Opus outlines serious allegations against Opus Dei, including financial wrongdoing and the mistreatment of members. After reviewing the claims, Argentine prosecutors identified potential grounds for a criminal investigation into the group's South American leaders. The allegations involve 44 women who may have been subjected to human trafficking and exploitative labour conditions.
Pope Leo XIV has engaged repeatedly with Opus Dei's leadership since his election. He recently met with Gore in a public audience, signalling his concern over abuses against vulnerable adults in the Church. The meeting was arranged with the help of a former member of an abusive Peruvian group linked to Opus Dei. The Pope has already introduced reforms, requiring Opus Dei to report to the Vatican's office for clergy and rewrite its internal rules. He also directed the Pontifical Commission for the Protection of Minors to prioritise the protection of vulnerable adults this year. Despite these moves, Opus Dei has denied all accusations of human trafficking and exploitation. No former or current members in Argentina have come forward publicly with accounts of exploitation. No legal action has yet been taken in connection with the allegations.
The Pope's meeting with Gareth Gore highlights growing scrutiny of Opus Dei's practices. Reforms have been introduced, but the organisation continues to face pressure over unresolved allegations. The focus now shifts to whether further investigations will take place in Argentina or within the Vatican itself.