Pay checks and power games. Synodality in action.

Synodality, the term that has become the motto of the current pontificate, promises a more approachable, participatory, and fraternal Church. But in Lima's practice, this "pastoral conversion" seems to have led to something else: an internal power structure, with opaque financial benefits and clerical favoritism. The case of Jesuit Father Juan Bytton is a paradigmatic example of how this new ecclesial model is intertwined with dynamics that are not entirely evangelical.

The Rise of the "Favorite Son"

Trained in Ignatian spirituality, Father Bytton arrived at the Pontifical Catholic University of Peru (PUCP) on the recommendation of Carlos Cardó ("Calín"), an influential figure in the Peruvian Church and very close to Pope Francis. Since then, his rise has been meteoric: university chaplain, synodal advisor to the Archdiocese of Lima, and a regular celebrant at the Church of St. Peter.

In every space, he appears as the face of the "outgoing Church," but also as a beneficiary of an internal system that raises more than a few eyebrows among his fellow priests. His close relationship with Archbishop Carlos Castillo Mattasoglio, whom he calls "my father in the faith," translates into notable influence and, most delicately, privileged treatment, especially in economic terms.

And there's more: Juan Bytton recently spent a long time in Rome, officially "studying," but in reality serving almost every afternoon as Pope Francis's assistant, as a trusted Jesuit. His closeness to the Pontiff was notable and fundamental to his position in Lima. A relationship that explains many things... including his salaries.

Three positions, three incomes

According to consulted sources and verifiable documents, Father Bytton's monthly income would mount to approximately S/ 19,000 (more than 5,000 euros). The sum comes from at least three positions:

S/ 9,000 as a synodal advisor to the Archdiocese of Lima.

S/ 3,000 for liturgical services at the Jesuit church of San Pedro.

S/ 7,000 as a chaplain at the PUCP (Public Prosecutor's Office).

All of this, without counting additional benefits, covered expenses, or collaborations with media outlets or parallel activities.

Liturgy on a Payroll

This situation raises an uncomfortable question: how is the vow of poverty compatible with this income structure? Is it consistent to preach a Church "poor for the poor" while some of its representatives embody clericalism with executive salaries? "Synodality" in Lima, rather than being a path to renewal, seems to have become—in certain sectors—a platform for power with very earthly dividends.

Synodal silence on blasphemy

One of the most controversial episodes was the controversy surrounding the play María Maricón, presented in venues linked to the PUCP. The piece, which generated rejection even among progressive sectors, was received with an ambiguous "accompaniment in discernment" by Father Bytton. There was no clear defense of the figure of the Virgin Mary nor a firm disclaimer of irreverence.

The priest's position, as in many cases, was one of calculated silence and diplomatic language. It is hard to imagine that Pope Francis—a fervent Marian devotee—would have approved of this position, but perhaps he was not presented with all the information... only the "executive summary."

What would Francis say?

Pope Francis has tirelessly repeated: "I prefer a Church that is bruised, wounded, and soiled from taking to the streets, than a Church that is sick from shutting itself away in comfort."

But in this case, comfort doesn't seem like an illness. Rather, it seems like institutional politics and a well-paid payroll. A synodality with benefits, an "outgoing Church" that knows very well where the money comes in.

Evangelical epilogue

As the Gospel says: "The truth will set you free." And from a critical perspective, one can only hope that Father Bytton's income is being channeled into some social work. Because the numbers don't lie: S/ 19,000 a month does not reflect the lifestyle of a religious person committed to evangelical poverty.

In a country where the minimum wage is S/ 1,130 (272 euros), these figures contrast scandalously with the pastoral discourse that is so often proclaimed. Many diocesan priests—true pastors—survive with austerity, without cameras or fancy titles. Meanwhile, others seem to have made their faith a managerial career.

In Father Bytton's case, one wonders if the spirit of Saint Ignatius still resonates in his way of life. It's hard to believe the holy founder felt proud of this brother of his. Because it's one thing to preach poverty... and quite another to collect it piecemeal.

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