Holy See accepts resignation of German bishop Tebartz van Elst
March 26,2014: The Holy See has accepted the resignation of Bishop Franz-Peter Tebarts
van Elst of the diocese of Limburg, Germany. A statement issued Wednesday by the Vatican
Press office to the administration of the diocese of Limburg, Germany, said the Congregation
for Bishops has “carefully studied the report of the Commission requested by the Bishop
and by the Cathedral Chapter, to undertake thorough investigations about the responsibilities
involved in the construction of the Diocesan Centre “St. Nikolaus.” The statement
further acknowledges that the diocese of Limburg has come to “a situation that prevents
a fruitful exercise of the ministry of Bishop Franz -Peter Tebartz -van Elst.” The
statement says the Holy See has accepted the resignation presented by the Bishop on
October 20, 2013, and has appointed a sede vacante an Apostolic Administrator in the
person of Bishop Manfred Grothe . The Vatican Press Office states that Bishop Tebartz
-van Elst , “in due course will receive another assignment.” The statement also
says the Holy Father asks the clergy and faithful of the diocese of Limburg to accept
the decisions of the Holy See and to commit themselves to rediscovering a spirit of
charity and reconciliation.