Pope Francis Accepts Resignation of Canadian Bishop Amid Class-Action Lawsuit.

On Tuesday, Pope Francis announced the acceptance of the resignation of Jean-Pierre Blais, the 75-year-old bishop of Baie-Comeau, Quebec. This decision comes in the context of a class-action lawsuit against the Church, which includes allegations of sexual assault involving Blais. However, the pope did not specify any reasons for the bishop’s replacement, and the Diocese of Baie-Comeau has stated that the resignation is unrelated to the allegations.

In accordance with Church policy, bishops are required to submit their resignation upon reaching the age of 75. The pope retains the authority to review and accept these resignations based on various circumstances. Following Blais’ resignation, Reverend Pierre Charland, a senior member of Canada’s Roman Catholic Franciscan order, has been appointed as his successor.

While Blais has been named in a list of alleged sexual predators as part of the ongoing legal proceedings against the Archdiocese of Quebec, he has consistently denied any wrongdoing. The Diocese has emphasized that the appointment of a new bishop is not connected to the allegations against Blais, reaffirming the Church’s longstanding policy regarding the retirement of bishops at the age of 75.

As the Church navigates these serious allegations, the appointment of Reverend Charland marks a new chapter for the Diocese of Baie-Comeau, amidst ongoing discussions surrounding accountability and reform within the institution.