Archbishop Scicluna admitted to hospital

By Christopher Wells

Archbishop Charles Scicluna, who was sent by Pope Francis to Chile to investigate claims that a Bishop had covered-up sexual abuse, has been admitted to hospital in Santiago.

A spokesman for the Chilean Bishops’ Conference, Deacon Jaime Coiro, said Archbishop Scicluna had been feeling unwell since before he began his mission. On Tuesday, a decision was made to consult with doctors. Following the evaluation, the Archbishop was admitted to hospital for gall bladder surgery.

According to Deacon Coiro, the Archbishop’s mission is expected to continue, with Scicluna’s assistant, Bishop Jordi Bertomeu, taking his place. Bishop Bertomeu had been serving as translator and notary in the “listening meetings” with sex abuse victims. Another notary will be assigned to assist the Bishop.

Deacon Coiro said that Archbishop Scicluna intends to resume interviewing victims personally as soon as possible.