The investigation into alleged irregularities in the Sistine Chapel Choir's management of its financial funds began in September 2018. The Vatican authorized the start of the process and the Promoter of Justice, Alessandro Diddi, began the trial proceedings.
The first court hearing was held last May. The defendants include Massimo Palombella, the choir director; Michelangelo Nardella, the administrative director; and Simona Rossi, Nardella's wife. They are accused of allegedly using the money from several concerts for their own benefit and the money was deposited in an Italian bank account.
The second hearing took place in June 2022. Archbishop Georg Ganswein, Pope Benedict XVI's secretary, testified because the Sistine Chapel Choir was under the Prefecture of the Pontifical Household. The Archbishop was the head of the Prefecture until January 2019 when it was transferred to the Master of Liturgical Celebrations.
In his statement, the Archbishop claims that he 'had no proof, but suspicions' regarding the actions of the choir and administrative directors. The next trial date is set for July 26, when the three accused will testify again.
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