The Vatican has rejected, as “entirely unfounded,” reports that the Father Marko Rupnik has been acquitted. The canonical trial is still proceeding, the Vatican statement assures us. Just be patient, you know; these things take time.

After all it’s only six years since this scandal exploded; only four years since his excommunication and its lightning-quick reversal; only four years since the Vatican decided not to press canonical charges; only three years since Pope Francis, under heavy public pressure, ordered the prosecution re-opened.

The Jesuits, who are not especially noted for quick disciplinary action against abusers, had seen enough to expel Rupnik for their order three years ago. But the Vatican is still sifting the evidence…

How long, O Lord?