Pope Francis removes Canadian bishop accused of abuse

ANSA, Philippine News Agency

According to Vatican sources, Francis has accepted Blais’ resignation as Bishop of Baie-Comeau, Canada. (Pexels Photo)

ROME – Pope Francis has officially removed Canadian Bishop Jean-Pierre Blais, who has been accused of sexual abuse in Quebec.

Despite being hospitalized at Rome’s Policlinico Agostino Gemelli Hospital for bronchitis, the Pope continues to oversee Church affairs, including disciplinary actions.

According to Vatican sources, Francis has accepted Blais’ resignation as Bishop of Baie-Comeau, Canada.

Blais, 75, was named in a class-action lawsuit against the Archdiocese of Quebec, which includes allegations of sexual abuse by clergy members.

His name appears on a list of alleged sexual predators submitted as part of the case.

Francis has appointed Father Pierre Charland, who previously served as the provincial minister of the Franciscans of Canada, as the new Bishop of Baie-Comeau. (ANSA)