The
papal delegate overseeing the Legion of Christ and Regnum Christ met
with Pope Francis on Monday to discuss the progress that has been made
in reforming the two religious bodies.
During their 45-minute meeting, Cardinal Velasio De Paolis said, he and
the Pope discussed the drafting of a new constitution for the Legion of
Christ, which will be presented at the order’s General Chapter in early
2014.
They also discussed the general statutes that govern Regnum Christi and
its consecrated and lay members. New leaders of both congregations will
be elected at the General Chapter.
Cardinal De Paolis described Regnum Christ to the Holy Father as “a
precious reality that enriches and complements the work of the Legion.”
The final results of the renewal process will be presented to the Holy Father for his approval, he said.
The meeting comes as part of ongoing reform efforts for the Legion after
revelations that its founder, Fr. Marcel Maciel, lived a double life,
sexually abused seminarians and fathered children. The Vatican responded
by calling for a period of renewal that includes a redefinition of the
Legion’s mission and governing structure.
The Legionaries of Christ and the members of Regnum Christi recently
announced a period of atonement and prayer in preparation for the
General Assemblies that will determine their future, as well as Pope
Francis’ expected decision about their spiritual family.