The latest court documents have revealed an alarming development in the lawsuit against the Archdiocese of Quebec, with 46 new individuals stepping forward as alleged victims.
This brings the total number of plaintiffs in the case to 147.
Cardinal Gerald Lacroix, aged 66, a member of the Council of Cardinals advising Pope Francis, is now facing a more extensive set of accusations.
Archdiocese’s Response
Valerie Roberge-Dion, the spokesperson for the Archdiocese of Quebec, expressed the institution’s shock at these unfolding events.
In a statement, she conveyed the difficulty in comprehending these new developments, emphasizing the significant impact on the community.
Cardinal Ouellet’s Involvement
It is noteworthy that Cardinal Marc Ouellet, the prefect emeritus of the Dicastery for Bishops at the Vatican and the former archbishop of Quebec from 2003 to 2010, was also implicated in the initial 2022 filing of the lawsuit against the Archdiocese.
The accusations against Cardinal Ouellet, made by a woman identified as “F,” included instances of alleged sexual abuse.
According to AFP, the victim reported multiple incidents of abuse, citing inappropriate kissing and touching by the cardinal.
Continued Unveiling of Sexual Abuse Allegations
The ongoing legal proceedings highlight the seriousness of the allegations against prominent figures within the Archdiocese of Quebec.
As the number of plaintiffs grows, the case underscores the imperative for a thorough investigation and a commitment to addressing instances of abuse within religious institutions.
The broader implications of these allegations extend beyond individual cases, prompting a reevaluation of institutional practices and accountability mechanisms.
The unfolding events place a renewed spotlight on the need for transparency, accountability, and justice in addressing cases of sexual abuse within religious organizations.
Religion News
TDPel Media
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