“Sexual Assault Suspect Released from Clerical Status by Pope”

Dresden. At the end of January 2023, the Dresden-Meißen diocese reported that a pastor had been released from service on suspicion of sexual assaults against young people. The prosecution had been informed; to the knowledge of the diocese, the corresponding procedure is still ongoing.

The ecclesiastical preliminary investigation procedure was closed and the case presented to the legal norms according to the Dicastery for the Doctrine of the Faith in Rome. At the same time the priest asked to be released from the clergy. Pope Francis complied with this request “pro bono Ecclesiae” (for the good of the Church). As of May 10, the priest was now dispensed from priestly duties and made a layman.

The diocese is in close contact with the person affected by the abuse and offers its support. The parishes will be informed of the events. The diocese is also in contact with the accused.

Vicar General Andreas Kutschke explains: “The prevention work in our diocese must be intensively continued and further established. We want to do everything we can to prevent cases of abuse as far as possible. The processing of the events should also continue. We are permanently committed to these goals.”