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HBO Max Docuseries on Marcial Maciel Drives New Scrutiny of Legionaries of Christ

New testimony with internal figures in the HBO Max series renews scrutiny of the order's record of abuse.

Overview

  • Three of four episodes are now streaming, with the finale scheduled to debut on Thursday, August 28.
  • The series features on-camera accounts from early accusers José Barba, Juan José Vaca and Alejandro Espinosa alongside previously unseen materials.
  • Creators cite data attributed to the Legion of Christ that report at least 60 minors abused by Maciel and roughly 30 priests accused of abusing about 175 children and youths.
  • The investigation details how Maciel expanded influence through the Regnum Christi structure and Opus Dei–style use of consecrated laity.
  • Responding to the renewed attention, the Legionaries highlight prior statements from 2010 and 2014, point to Vatican-supervised reform and stress mission, service and transparency.