Peruvian Auxiliary Bishop Resigns amid Sexual Abuse Allegations

Gabino Miranda, auxiliary bishop of the diocese of Ayacucho in Perú, was dismissed from his post because of allegations that he had sexual relations with minors, Zenit repoted. The news broke in September when Bishop Luis Bambarén, former president of the Peruvian bishops’ conference, was being interviewed about another subject by the Buenas Noches television program, Perú21 reported.

Bambarén cited the pope’s “zero tolerance” for sexual abuse, adding, “Those are very serious crimes, especially when it has to do with a bishop.” The bishops’ conference has acknowledged accepting Miranda’s resignation but has not stated why, according to Reuters.

A report in the Vatican Insider said that Miranda sent a letter to Pope Benedict XVI in 2012 recognizing his imprudent behavior but these “alleged shortcomings could not be classified as crimes.” In May of 2013, the Congregation of the Doctrine of the Faith ordered Miranda to cease exercising any duties of his episcopal ministry.

While Miranda is not a member of Opus Dei, the Peruvian Opus Dei group released a statement that he “denies any crime related to minors.” Cardian Jean Luis Cipriani of Perú has also disagreed with the Vatican’s handling of the case, calling it part of an “organized campaign” to discredit Miranda.