KALAMAZOO, MI (WKZO AM/FM) — The Bishop of Kalamazoo is commenting on the Vatican decision this weekend to defrock former Cardinal Theodore McCarrick, following allegations of sexual misconduct.
The former Washington Archbishop can now no longer present himself as a Catholic priest.
Kalamazoo Bishop Paul Bradley is calling the announcement “a sad, yet just decision”.
“While further investigation into this grave matter continues, this unprecedented step of dismissing a member of the hierarchy from all rights and obligations of ordained ministry, as well as all ability to function as a member of the Catholic clergy, is an important step forward. It is also a significant demonstration that everyone, regardless of rank or status, is accountable to the Law of God and the Laws of the Church.”
The punishment, handed down by the Congregation for the Doctrine of Faith, makes McCarrick the highest-ranking leader to be defrocked in modern times. The action comes just days ahead of a major international summit at the Vatican on the protection of minors in the Catholic Church.
Bishop Bradley added “Most importantly, I call on all of us to unite our prayers with all survivors of clergy sex abuse…as Pope Francis prepares to convene the historic worldwide meeting of Bishops, representing all Episcopal Conferences throughout the world.”
“I also take this occasion to urge anyone who has ever experienced anything of that nature, who has not already done so, to come forward by contacting the Diocese of Kalamazoo’s Sexual Misconduct Question and Reporting Line (877) 802-0115, your local law enforcement, or both.”
The 88-year-old McCarrick resigned last summer when the allegations surfaced. Defrocking is the most severe punishment the Church can impose on clergy members.
