Legionaries of Christ on series about founder Maciel: "Act of transparency"

Madrid - The Legionaries of Christ have explained their involvement in the new HBO documentary series about founder and abuser Marcial Maciel. At the same time, they reaffirm their solidarity with those affected and refer to their renewal process.

Published on 01.09.2025 at 11:42 –

Following the launch of a documentary series about the founder of the Legionaries of Christ, Marcial Maciel (1920-2008), the community has emphasised its solidarity with victims of abuse. According to Spanish media, the Legionaries explained that they had given the production company HBO information and insights into their renewal processes in 2022 "as an act of responsibility and transparency".

The documentary series entitled "Marcial Maciel: The Wolf of God" focuses on at least 60 cases of abuse committed by the founder of the community. The series has been available on HBO in the USA since 14 August.

Serious cases of abuse by the founder

By taking part, the community wanted to face up to its own history with "openness and humility", recognise the damage caused and show the "path of renewal that has been taken". "We are aware that we still have a long way to go, but we reaffirm our commitment to the truth and to those who have suffered," said the community.

According to its own information, the Legionaries of Christ currently have around 1,400 members in 21 countries. In the early 2000s, serious cases of sexual and spiritual abuse by Maciel came to light. This led to a serious crisis in the order and a renewal process lasting several years. (KNA)