Knights of Columbus Cover Mosaics Amid Abuse Allegations

The Knights of Columbus, the largest Catholic fraternal organization globally, has decided to cover mosaics created by artist Rev. Marko Rupnik at its Washington D.C. shrine following allegations of abuse against him. The organization stated that the decision was made to show solidarity with the victims, as the display of the mosaics could further harm them. Initially, the mosaics will be covered with paper, transitioning to a more suitable fabric for worship spaces once it arrives. Rupnik's mosaics, which depict biblical scenes and figures, are prominent in various Catholic basilicas worldwide. However, the artist faces accusations from over 20 women regarding psychological, spiritual, and sexual abuse. This situation has raised significant concerns about the future of his artwork, prompting the Knights of Columbus to take this unprecedented step among major church organizations. The scandal surrounding Rupnik has intensified, implicating Pope Francis due to the Vatican's delayed response to the victims' complaints, which only gained public attention in late 2022. Gloria Branciani, one of the alleged victims, expressed her internal conflict over the decision to remove the mosaics, emphasizing the negative energy associated with their creation. Rupnik was expelled from the Jesuit order last year, and a new canonical trial has been ordered by Pope Francis amid growing calls for justice for the victims. While Rupnik has not publicly responded to the allegations, his supporters have criticized the media coverage as a “lynching.”