Lourdes bishop to cover Rupnik mosaics ahead of papal visit

Bishop Jean-Marc Micas of Tarbes and Lourdes has announced that mosaic artwork by disgraced priest Marko Rupnik will be covered at the Basilica of Our Lady of the Rosary. The decision comes ahead of Pope Leo XIV’s scheduled visit to France from September 25–28, 2026.

The mosaics on the basilica’s facade will be covered before the papal visit and will remain covered indefinitely. Bishop Micas stated that the move is intended to show respect to victims of abuse and to ensure the sanctuary remains a place where the wounded can find consolation.

Marko Rupnik, a former Jesuit, faces a Vatican trial following numerous allegations of serial psychological, spiritual, and sexual abuse against dozens of women, many of whom were religious sisters. While Rupnik has denied wrongdoing, the bishop emphasized that the sanctuary must prioritize those seeking reparation and healing.