Pope's Strategic Appointment in Rabat
On September 12, 2026, Pope Francis appointed Father Mario León Dorado, OMI, as the new coadjutor archbishop of Rabat, Morocco. This decision comes in the wake of a significant investigation into sexual abuse allegations surrounding Cardinal Cristóbal López Romero, the current archbishop. As the coadjutor, Father Dorado will temporarily oversee the governance of the archdiocese while these serious allegations are being addressed. This move is seen as a necessary step to ensure stability and trust within the archdiocese during a tumultuous period.
Context of the Appointment
The appointment of Father Dorado follows reports of inappropriate behavior by Cardinal López Romero, which have led to an ongoing Vatican investigation. The cardinal has publicly stated that he has not committed any acts of aggression, violence, or sexual harassment. However, with at least five women accusing him of misconduct, the situation necessitated prompt action from the Vatican to maintain the integrity of the church’s leadership in Morocco. This incident reflects a broader pattern of addressing sexual abuse within the church, as the Vatican continues to grapple with its response to such allegations across the globe.
As reported by cath.ch.
