Pope Leo XIV Faces Scrutiny Over Past Abuse Case Decisions

Just weeks into his papacy, Pope Leo XIV (formerly Robert Prevost) is facing controversy following claims by a defrocked priest, James M. Ray. Ray alleges that Prevost, as head of the Midwest Augustinian order in 2000, approved his housing at St. John Stone Friary—less than a block from a Chicago elementary school—despite knowing Ray had been accused of abusing at least 13 children.

Ray lived at the friary from 2000 to 2002 while under strict restrictions. Neither the nearby school nor a childcare center across the alley was informed of his presence. While the Archdiocese was officially responsible for Ray, an internal memo suggests Prevost may have known and failed to notify local authorities or the school.

A lawyer for the Augustinians claimed Prevost only “accepted a guest,” placing monitoring responsibility on the friary’s then-leader. Ray was removed from ministry in 2002 and defrocked in 2012. Despite minimizing the allegations, Ray admitted to inappropriate behavior and hinted that others from that era may also be implicated. He expressed mixed feelings about Prevost’s election as pope, calling it “positive” but ironic.

Pope Leo XIV has publicly advocated for transparency and victim support, saying in 2023, “Silence is not the solution.” Still, this case raises questions about decisions made under his leadership before becoming pope.