German Bishops Spoke To Pope About Cardinal Accused In Abuse Scandal
ROME/Italy: German bishops told Pope Francis during a visit to the Vatican that they are struggling with uncertainty over the future of Cologne Cardinal Rainer Maria Woelki, who has faced accusations of covering up sexual abuse.
“It was made very clear that the situation in the archdiocese is increasingly unbearable, also for the archbishop,” the president of the German Bishops’ Conference (DBK), Georg Bätzing, said on Saturday.
The decision about Woelki’s future, which has been outstanding for months, is a burden for Catholics in Germany, he said.
The pressure was growing and was “no longer bearable,” said the DBK leader.
The pontiff made his position clear at the meeting with DBK representatives but had not said whether, when, and how he wanted to decide.
The cardinal has been criticized for his handling of abuse cases. Criminal investigations against the 66-year-old have been underway for a short time.
Under investigation is a claim that he made a false statement while under oath about his knowledge of sexual abuse, which Woelki denies.
More than 60 bishops travelled to Rome for the regular obligatory visit, the “ad limina” visit, which usually takes place every five years.
At the Vatican, they met not only the pope but also the heads of important authorities of the Holy See.
Source: (dpa)
