Pope Francis Issues Motu Proprio Vos estis lux mundi
(“You are the light of the world”)

The Holy Father issued revised Motu Proprio Vos estis lux mundi for the worldwide response to the evil of sexual abuse. These norms, initially promulgated in 2019, are now permanent. This add to layers of response already in place in the United States including the Essential Norms and the Charter for the Protection of Children and Young People.

These norms affect the global Church and require:

• easily accessible reporting systems
• clear standards for the pastoral support of victims and their families
• timeliness and thoroughness of investigations
• whistleblower protection for those making allegations
• active involvement of the laity

Bishops are also to be held accountable under the authority of this Motu Proprio, which covers sexual abuse of minors or vulnerable persons, sexual acts compelled through the abuse of authority, and any coverup or interference with the reporting of such crimes.

The norms also require that Church institutions comply with civil reporting laws.