The Diocese of Cádiz y Ceuta has announced the temporary suspension of Bishop Rafael Zornoza from his official duties. The decision is due to two reasons: the need for intensive treatment for an aggressive form of cancer, and a desire to facilitate the clarification of circumstances surrounding an investigation initiated by the Vatican.
The investigation concerns events that took place in the 1990s, when Zornoza was the rector of the seminary in Getafe. According to the complainant, he was subjected to sexual harassment by the future bishop, starting in his teenage years and continuing into adulthood. The complaint provides detailed accounts of incidents both within the seminary and during joint trips and camps. Additionally, the victim claims he was subjected to attempts to ‘correct’ his sexual orientation through religious practices.
Zornoza himself categorically denies all accusations, calling them not only unfounded but also extremely damaging to his reputation. The diocese emphasizes that no public statements regarding the case will be made until the church court reaches a decision. It has also been revealed for the first time that the bishop is suffering from a serious illness, which had not been previously reported.
Details of the investigation and the church’s position
The complaint was filed with the Vatican in the summer of last year. It details cases in which the young man, while still a seminarian, was subjected to psychological and physical pressure. Particular attention is paid to the fact that the abuses took place in an atmosphere of trust and confession, which, according to the complainant, made the trauma even worse. Ten years after the events described, the victim tried to contact Sornosa by email but received no response. Only years later did they manage to meet in person, where, according to the complainant, the bishop acknowledged the manipulations but denied any malicious intent.
The case is currently being heard by a church court at the Apostolic Nunciature in Spain. Diocesan representatives have expressed their full willingness to cooperate with ecclesiastical authorities and stress the importance of the presumption of innocence. At the same time, church officials note that such accusations always spark widespread public outcry and require maximum transparency.
Public reaction and next steps
The scandal surrounding the Bishop of Cádiz sparked a strong reaction both among the faithful and in secular society. Many are demanding a thorough and impartial investigation to establish the truth and prevent such incidents from happening again in the future. Within the diocese itself, there is hope the proceedings will be conducted fairly, and that the court’s decision will help restore trust in church institutions.
For now, Rafael Sornosa is focused on his treatment and awaiting the outcome of the investigation. His temporary suspension from duties is a necessary measure to avoid influencing the course of the inquiry and to prevent additional pressure on those involved in the process. In the coming months, the church court is expected to issue a preliminary decision in this case.
