A day after the emergence of a report on the rape of nuns by priests, the Roman Catholic Aid Agency, Cafod, has confirmed that it showed the Vatican the report seven years ago. The leaked report said that priests and missionaries across several continents were forcing nuns to have sex with them.
On Tuesday, the Vatican confirmed that such abuse had been taking place, but denied that it was so widespread.
The vatican says it will investigate internally
Among the abuses detailed is the case of a nun being forced to have an abortion by the priest who impregnated her. She later died and he officiated at her requiem mass.
Also cited is the case of a mother superior who repeatedly complained to her local bishop that priests in the diocese had made 29 of her nuns pregnant
The bishop, according to the report, subsequently relieved her of her duties.
'Disturbing testimonies'
In particular, the report singles out Africa where priests and missionaries, wary of catching HIV, have targetted nuns in a bid for safe sex.
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