Analysis: Pope Francis refuses Barbarin resignation 

The Tablet

by Christopher Lamb

---

What is being neglected is the..potentially perilous pitfall for the Church being seen to pick and choose between judgements of the civil authorities

Pope Francis meets with French Cardinal Philippe Barbarin of Lyon at the Vatican March 18, 2019
Photo: CNS photo/Vatican Media

Pope Francis’ refusal of the resignation of French Cardinal Philippe Barbarin underscores how the abuse crisis is reshaping the relationship between Church and state.
Following a court conviction for failing to report abuse Cardinal Barbarin, presented his resignation as Archbishop of Lyon to the Pope on Monday 18 March. While technically keeping the Lyon prelate in his position, Francis has allowed him to step away from running the archdiocese and put a Vicar-General in charge. Barbarin no longer has executive responsibility. 

Read more....