Reporting Tone & Ethics

The accumulation of these scandals—both real and sensationalized—contributed significantly to the environment that led to Pope Benedict XVI’s resignation in 2013.

The "Belami" scandal centers on allegations that Vatican officials or associates used an online escort service or adult-entertainment platform named Belami (or linked to that brand) to procure sexual services and possibly engaged in related misconduct. Reporting tied the matter to concerns about misuse of Vatican resources, clerical involvement, and damage to the Holy See’s reputation.

A monthly screening series in a basement off the Borgo Pio. The rules: one short art film from the Criterion Collection, one short Bel Ami scene from 1994, followed by a debate on "the male gaze in sacred art." The moderator is a defrocked priest turned art historian. Wine is served. So is judgment.