Accused priest asserts innocence at Vatican seminary abuse hearing

Vatican City, Feb 10, 2021 / 11:00 am (CNA).- At a hearing on Wednesday in a trial for alleged abuse and cover-up at a Vatican youth seminary, a defendant asserted his innocence, imputing abuse accusations to jealousy and divisions within the institution.

“These are unfounded accusations,” Fr. Gabriele Martinelli said during two hours of questioning in a Vatican courtroom on Feb. 10.