Overview

• Bishop Juan Antonio Reig Pla apologized after asserting that disability is a 'heritage of sin and disorder of nature' during a May 11 homily.
• The Spanish Government referred the bishop’s remarks to the Fiscalía, while the Disability Office opened an investigation seeking explanations from the Church.
• The Episcopal Commission issued a statement reaffirming the dignity of persons with disabilities, citing Catholic doctrine and the 'Dignitas infinita' document.
• Cocentaina’s Council of Social Services and Health unanimously condemned the remarks, joining widespread civic and political criticism.
• The controversy underscores tensions between traditional theological interpretations and Spain’s anti-discrimination norms and inclusion advocacy.