While this may seem like the easiest way of assessing the truth of Viganò's claims, many of the documents in question could be protected by the "pontifical secret." But what is that? The ...

Pope Francis has lifted the "pontifical secret," the highest degree of confidentiality that has been used in sexual abuse cases to protect pedophiles and silence victims. The change, announced ...

Vatican City — Pope Francis has abolished the "pontifical secret" used in clergy sexual abuse cases, after mounting criticism that the high degree of confidentiality has been used to protect ...

Pope Francis released new papal documents Tuesday that eliminate the application of the “pontifical secrecy” rule in cases of sexual abuse. Catholic clergy in many countries, including the US, have ...

Pope Francis has abolished the pontifical secret used in clergy sexual abuse cases, after mounting criticism that the high degree of confidentiality has been used to protect pedophiles ...