Best of the Spectator Holy Smoke: who is actually running the Catholic Church?
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Mar 28, 2025 Pope Francis is currently in enforced isolation due to illness, leaving the Catholic Church's leadership in uncertainty. Discussions reveal the rising influence of Cardinal Pietro Parolin, who is eyeing the papacy for himself. Financial troubles further complicate the Vatican’s situation, and a recent scandal involving the dismissal of Auditor General Libero Milone raises questions about accountability. Additionally, troubling allegations against Father Marco Rupnik add to the growing crisis of morality within the Church.
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Vatican Power Vacuum
- Pope Francis' illness has created a power vacuum in the Vatican, raising questions about who is truly in charge.
- The situation is further complicated by ongoing financial and sexual abuse scandals.
Vatican Financial Crisis
- The Vatican's finances are in dire straits, partly due to the Trump administration's decision to halt subsidies to certain US charities.
- Mismanagement and corruption within the Curia have exacerbated the financial crisis.
Libero Milone Case
- The Vatican suppressed evidence in the Libero Milone lawsuit to protect high-ranking officials.
- Milone, the former auditor general, was sacked for uncovering corruption.