The Archdiocese of Barcelona has initiated a formal intervention into the Fundación Sant Josep Oriol, a significant charitable entity under its jurisdiction, following the discovery of severe financial irregularities. Cardinal Omella authorized an external audit that uncovered mismanagement within the foundation and prompted a broader investigation into the administration of other diocesan-affiliated institutions. The move follows reports of substantial financial losses and allegations of improper asset management, including the sale of real estate at prices below market value.
This administrative restructuring, which involves the removal of key personnel, comes as the diocese attempts to reconcile its internal accounts and address potential misappropriation of funds. According to diocesan records, the investigation has centered on the activities of two specific administrators: Rubén García-Lozano, a permanent deacon, and Saturnino Rodríguez Rodríguez, who previously served as an archpriest with episcopal vicar responsibilities. The inquiry is examining the extent of the “financial hole” left by their oversight of the Fundación Sant Josep Oriol, the Fundación Valldejuli, and the Fundación Mare de Déu dels Innocents i Desemparats in L’Hospitalet de Llobregat.
Financial Irregularities and Institutional Oversight
The intervention into the Fundación Sant Josep Oriol, which oversees several geriatric residences, was triggered by findings from a year-long external audit. The audit identified systemic failures in administrative controls, specifically regarding the management of property assets and operational funds. In one instance involving the Fundación Valldejuli, investigators reportedly uncovered a pattern of selling buildings at significantly discounted rates, failing to meet standard market valuation requirements.
The Archdiocese of Barcelona confirmed that the investigation into these foundations is ongoing. Diocesan authorities are working closely with external auditors to quantify the exact financial impact of these management practices. While the total deficit has not been finalized, initial reports suggest losses reaching several millions of euros. The Archdiocese has signaled that further details regarding the scope of the mismanagement and the subsequent legal or canonical actions will be released as the audit concludes.
Scope of the Diocesan Investigation
The investigation has widened to include multiple entities linked to the Archdiocese. The focus on Rubén García-Lozano and Saturnino Rodríguez Rodríguez marks a significant disciplinary action for the diocese. Both individuals were removed from their administrative roles following the audit’s findings. The Fundación Mare de Déu dels Innocents i Desemparats, located in L’Hospitalet de Llobregat, is currently undergoing a forensic review to determine if the financial irregularities identified elsewhere were mirrored in its operations.
The management of geriatric care facilities, a core function of the Fundación Sant Josep Oriol, has been a particular point of scrutiny.
Next Steps for the Archdiocese
The Archdiocese of Barcelona has committed to providing a comprehensive report on the findings of the external audit once the investigation is finalized.
We will continue to monitor official statements from the Archdiocese of Barcelona for further developments regarding this case. Readers are encouraged to check back for updates on this unfolding financial investigation.
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