(ZENIT News / Bruges, 03.21.2024).- The case of the emeritus bishop of Bruges, Roger Vangheluwe, 87, has reached its conclusion with the imposition of laicization by Pope Francis. This event marks the closure of a long and painful chapter that has endured for decades, shaking the foundations of the Catholic Church.
The emeritus bishop of Bruges had resigned from his position in April 2010 after facing accusations of sexual abuse of minors, publicly admitting to having perpetrated acts of abuse against one of his nephews. However, due to the statute of limitations, legal action could not be taken against him until now.
However, new elements emerged in recent months leading to a thorough review of the case by the Congregation for the Doctrine of the Faith. These «new serious elements,» communicated to the mentioned congregation, prompted a reassessment of the case and the submission of documentation to the Holy Father.
On March 8, 2024, after carefully examining the prelate’s defense, the Doctrine of the Faith proposed to Pope Francis the dismissal from the clerical state in accordance with the regulations established in Pope John Paul II’s motu proprio on the «most serious crimes.» In an audience granted to Cardinal Víctor Manuel Fernández, Prefect of the Congregation for the Doctrine of the Faith, on March 11, Pope Francis accepted the request and ordered the imposition of the proposed penalty.
The measure was notified to the interested party on March 20, who requested to reside in a place of retreat without contact with the outside world, dedicated to prayer and penance. In this context, Pope Francis has reaffirmed his commitment to the victims of abuse and his determination to eradicate this scourge from the Church.
The case of the emeritus bishop of Bruges comes just a few months before the Pope’s visit to the country.
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