The Vatican authorities have launched a canonical investigation into Rafael Zornoza, head of the Diocese of Cádiz and Ceuta, following accusations of sexual harassment of a minor. According to the complainant, the alleged incidents took place in the 1990s, when Zornoza was a priest and directed the seminary in Getafe.
The victim, now an adult man, sent a detailed letter to church authorities this summer describing what he experienced. In it, he claimed to have been abused from the age of 14 to 21, including physical contact and psychological pressure. He said Zornoza used his position to manipulate him and even sent him for so-called ‘conversion therapy’ to change his sexual orientation.
According to church regulations, investigations of such cases involving bishops are overseen by the metropolitan, in this case the Archbishop of Seville. While under civil law the case is considered closed due to the statute of limitations, the church’s process is ongoing. As part of the proceedings, the accused, the alleged victim, and possible witnesses are to be questioned. The result may be an ecclesiastical trial and a verdict, which must be confirmed by the Vatican’s highest authority.
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