Sean O’Malley, Cardinal of the United States, announced his resignation as head of the Archdiocese of Boston. However, the archbishop will continue to lead the Pontifical Commission for the Protection of Minors.
During a press conference, it was reported that Cardinal O’Malley, 80, who did not elaborate on the reasons for his resignation, will be replaced by Richard Henning, the current bishop of Providence, Rhode Island, effective October 31.
Although the rules state that bishops must retire at 75, Pope Francis has relaxed the rule, although cardinals who are over 80 years old do not have the right to vote in the conclave.
In addition to recalling his arrival in Boston 21 years ago, Cardinal O’Malley noted that he will continue to be the leader of the Pontifical Commission for the Protection of Minors, a position he has held since 2014. This commission, created by Pope Francis, aims to combat abuse within the Church.
The cardinal’s resignation put an end to the decades marked by sexual abuse scandals in the Church, shortly before he arrived.
the member of the Franciscan order of the Friars Minor Capuchin, thanked and valued his experience in the Diocese of Washington, in addition to his work with the immigrant community.