According to Vatican News, these measures, imposed after his resignation as Archbishop, restrict his public activities, mandate his residence outside Peru, and limit his use of ecclesiastical insignia.
The confirmation, issued on January 26 by Matteo Bruni, Director of the Holy See Press Office, followed media reports about accusations filed against the Cardinal in 2018.
Cipriani, a prominent member of Opus Dei (a Spanish Roman Catholic lay and clerical organization whose members seek personal Christian perfection through ordinary life), faced allegations that led to sanctions, including a penal injunction, shortly after stepping down from his role in Lima.
The Vatican's sanctions aim to address accusations of abuses allegedly committed in the early 1980s. These measures include a requirement for the Cardinal to leave his home country of Peru and maintain a stable residence elsewhere.
Cipriani currently resides in Madrid, Spain, and has adhered to the restrictions since their implementation in 2019. While the Holy See has granted him limited permissions on occasion, the restrictions remain firmly in place.
In a statement addressing the accusations, Cipriani denied any wrongdoing, asserting that he never committed abuse in 1983 or at any other time.
He stated that he first learned of the allegations in 2018 and was informed by the Apostolic Nuncio in Peru in 2019 that the then-Congregation for the Doctrine of the Faith had imposed sanctions.
These included limitations on his priestly ministry, a mandate to live outside Peru, and restrictions on public statements.
Cipriani expressed concern over the recent publication of information he described as originating from confidential Vatican documentation.
While maintaining his innocence, he reiterated his condemnation of sexual abuse, particularly involving minors and vulnerable individuals.
Despite his denial, the Vatican has emphasized the importance of addressing such allegations with seriousness and accountability.
Cipriani concluded his statement by affirming his prayers for abuse victims, expressing forgiveness for his accusers, and maintaining that the allegations against him are baseless.
IGIHE
