In a historic move, an Argentine court issued a ruling last Friday condemning Archbishop Mario Cargnello of Salta, and three other clergy members, for their involvement in gender violence against a group of nuns.
The case revolved around allegations of violence against the Carmelite Nuns of the San Bernardo Convent, resulting from the nuns’ devotion to the “Virgen del Cerro” (Virgin of the Hill), a figure not recognized by the Church. The accused encompassed Archbishop Cargnello, Bishop Emeritus Martín de Elizalde, Judicial Vicar Loyola Pinto y de Sancristóval, and Priest Lucio Ajaya.
The verdict by Judge Carolina Cáceres Moreno, reflected a substantial pattern of abuse over two decades. The allegations varied from verbal attacks, marked by insults and threatening comments, to physical altercations, such as alleged slapping and shaking, largely the responsibility of Archbishop Cargnello.
Judge Cáceres’s verdict has necessitated extensive psychological rehabilitation for the accused clergy, aimed at eliminating deep-seated behavior patterns and fostering a better understanding of gender dynamics. They are also mandated to undergo gender awareness training from the Salta Province Observatory for Violence against Women, with non-compliance facing potential legal sanctions.
José Viola, the attorney for the aggrieved nuns, praised the verdict in an interview with Profesional FM as a brave departure from customary norms, especially given Salta’s ecclesiastical influence. “In the Catholic Church, this was a taboo topic, much like sexual abuse, and now it brings it to the forefront. This piece changes the legal history of the entire world; it is unprecedented and breaks a status quo, as it pertains to a person of great power,” he stated.
Nevertheless, the legal team for the Archbishopric has made clear its intention to appeal the ruling. They argue that the restraining orders lack substantial grounds, since there are no significant advancements in the case over the last two years. In a statement given to Cadena 3, a news radio station in Argentina, the Archbishopric’s attorneys stated, “[t]he Justice Department already said that there was no type of crime related to violence. In the next few days, the appeal of the resolution will be presented, which we understand is totally inadequate and contrary to law.”
The ruling is a momentous step in the struggle against gender violence, especially within religious institutions. Only time will disclose its lasting implications, along with the outcome of the impending appeal.