Jesuits Expel Priest Artist, Express Regret Over Vatican's Limitations on Further Punishment

The Jesuits have confirmed the expulsion of renowned artist priest, Rev. Marko Ivan Rupnik, from the religious order for sexually, spiritually, and psychologically abusing women. While Rupnik remains a Catholic priest, he is no longer a Jesuit priest. The Jesuits expressed regret that they couldn't prosecute him more vigorously under Vatican procedures. Rupnik had been accused by several women of abuse over 30 years, and the Jesuits found the claims to be highly credible. However, due to Vatican legislation at the time, the most severe penalty of defrocking could not be applied. Going forward, Rupnik will need to find a friendly bishop to continue his public ministry.