Cardinal Mahony to Play Role in Pope Francis' Funeral Despite Past Allegations

Cardinal Roger M. Mahony, once accused of covering up sexual abuse within the Church, will be involved in the funeral services for Pope Francis, raising questions about accountability within the Catholic leadership.

Cardinal Roger M. Mahony, who has faced allegations of hiding sexual abuse cases during his tenure as the archbishop of Los Angeles, is confirmed to take part in the funeral ceremonies for Pope Francis. The Vatican announced that Mahony will assist in closing the pope's casket at St. Peter’s Basilica on Friday evening, followed by participating in his burial at the Papal Basilica of Santa Maria Maggiore on Saturday.

Mahony, now 89, served as archbishop from 1985 until his retirement in 2011. His involvement comes despite revelations in 2013 that he played a significant role in concealing priestly abuse, reflected in internal church documents released during civil litigation. These documents implicated him and other church officials in efforts to shield abusive clergy from justice, including relocating priests suspected of abuse to avoid mandatory reporting to authorities.

In 2007, the Archdiocese of Los Angeles reached a staggering $660 million settlement covering claims from over 500 victims, which was noted as the largest settlement at that time. Last year, the Church agreed to an additional $880 million payout for claims involving 1,353 individuals. The Vatican indicated that the selection of cardinals participating in the funeral rites was based on seniority, leading to Mahony's inclusion despite his controversial past.