French Bishops' Conference presses Archbishop to reconsider his appointment of convicted rapist

Press release from the Presidency of the French Bishops' Conference

Isolated Archbishop

From August 16 to 20, the Presidency of the French Bishops' Conference decided to travel to the Holy Land to express our Church's support, not only to Christian communities but also to all friends of peace, regardless of their beliefs or religions, during an extremely painful and uncertain time, marked by the terrible humanitarian tragedy in Gaza and the endless wait for the release of the Israeli hostages. We hoped that the first step of the mandate entrusted to us would be to visit the Church living in Jerusalem and throughout the region, to join in the efforts that, in its poverty, it is making with men and women of goodwill, to ensure that the peoples of this land, especially the poorest, receive the material and spiritual support they need. We entrust this pilgrimage of hope to the prayers of all.

In France, the past few weeks have been a busy time for the Church. We would like to recall that for several years, our Church has courageously taken the path of truth in the painful issue of abuse committed within its midst. It is very important to continue this work in all areas of Church life. Little by little, we have learned to view these events first and foremost from the perspective of the people who have been victims and who suffer the lifelong consequences. This shift in perspective, the heartbreaking listening to their distress and pain, and the acceptance of their invitation to humbly pursue a path of truth with them, have initiated, for our Church institution, a long and demanding process of conversion, which we are determined to continue. In this spirit, we have engaged in a constructive dialogue with Archbishop Guy de Kerimel of Toulouse, inviting him to reconsider the decision he had made regarding the appointment of the Chancellor of his diocese. Indeed, such an appointment to such an important position, both canonically and symbolically, can only reopen wounds, awaken suspicions, and disconcert the people of God.

In a few days, the Solemnity of the Assumption of the Virgin Mary will mark a new and very intense moment in our dioceses, following the great and beautiful week of the Youth Jubilee in Rome. "The world needs a message of hope. You are that message!" the Pope told them. Echoing this call, we invite all those who will gather for the celebrations on August 15 to unite their prayers for respect for life and for peace in the world.

Card. Jean-Marc Aveline, Archbishop of Marseille,

President of the French Bishops' Conference

Mgr Vincent Jordy, Archbishop of Tours,

Vice-President of the French Bishops' Conference

Mgr Benoit Bertrand, Bishop of Pontoise,

Vice-President of the French Bishops' Conference

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