The end of May marked a tumultuous time within the Vatican. Just a month after Pope Benedict XVI named three cardinals to lead an investigation into recent leaks of confidential Vatican documents, Italian journalist Gianluigi Nuzzi published a book full of letters which, unbeknowst to the Pope, were taken from his own desk On May 26th, the first suspect was charged. His name is Paolo Gabriele. He could often be seen riding in the popemobile at the Pope's public audiences. Until days ago, he was personal butler to the pope, one of just a handful of people who had contact with him daily. Gabriele was put under arrest by the Vatican police for the "aggravated theft" of confidential Vatican documents found in his apartment. An internal judicial process is now being carried out. This cardinal is in charge of the continuing investigations into the so-called "Vatileaks." He says they cause great damage. Cardinal Julian Herranz Head of Cardinals' Commission to Investigate "Vatileaks" It confuses souls and gives the Holy See a completely injust image. For his part, the Pope's spokesman invited prudence in following the reality. Fr. Federico Lombardi Director, Holy See's Press Office In regard to the many news items that have appeared these days, I must completely refute that there is any suspicious Italian cardinal as some have asserted in authorized newspapers, or that there are women being investigation, or that there is a woman in charge of a group of people who is investigating the situation. These are all absolutely false indications and, therefore, you must reflect about how you follow this event, which is obviously painful, with objectivity and caution in such a way to not create absolutely unfounded and unjustified fantasies that give a negative image to the Church or get carried away by the anxiety of finding extraordinary explanations. One thing is certain, the Vatican is working to bring the truth to light.
