Pope Accepts Bishop's Resignation
Pope Leo XIV has accepted the resignation of Bishop Rafael Zornoza of the Diocese of Cadiz and Ceuta, Spain, following an investigation into historic child abuse allegations. The Vatican confirmed the acceptance of the resignation on Saturday, November 22, 2025, in a brief statement that did not elaborate on the reasons. This marks the first publicly known instance of Pope Leo XIV accepting a bishop's resignation while facing an abuse probe since his election in May 2025.
Allegations Against Bishop Zornoza
The investigation centers on accusations against Bishop Zornoza regarding the alleged sexual abuse of a minor between the ages of 14 and 21 during the 1990s. At the time, Zornoza was a priest and rector of the seminary in Getafe, near Madrid. The alleged victim reportedly sent a detailed complaint to the Dicastery for the Doctrine of the Faith earlier this summer. According to reports, the complainant alleged that Zornoza would enter his room at night, caress him, and kiss him, and that the abuse continued into his early twenties. The Diocese of Cadiz and Ceuta has denied the accusations, stating that the claims, referring to events nearly 30 years old, are 'very serious and also false'.
Vatican's Action and Ongoing Investigation
Bishop Zornoza, who is 76 years old, had previously submitted his resignation in 2024 upon reaching the customary retirement age of 75 for Catholic bishops. However, the resignation was only acted upon after Spanish media revealed that a canonical investigation was underway. The case is being handled by a church tribunal in Madrid, known as the Rota. Zornoza had temporarily suspended his public duties to 'clarify the facts' and to undergo treatment for an aggressive form of cancer.
Broader Context of Abuse in the Church
This event highlights the ongoing efforts within the Catholic Church to address historic child abuse allegations. Pope Leo XIV, who was elected on May 8, 2025, has reportedly met with groups of abuse survivors and pledged support for a 'zero tolerance' approach to such cases. The resignation of Bishop Zornoza marks a significant step in the Church's response to these allegations in Spain, where the Catholic Church has been confronting a legacy of abuse and cover-ups.
7 Comments
Fuerza
While it's good the Pope accepted the resignation, the delay in acting until media pressure is concerning. It shows there's still work to be done on proactive transparency.
Manolo Noriega
'Resignation' isn't justice, it's just moving the problem.
Fuerza
The allegations are deeply disturbing, and it's positive to see the Vatican acknowledge them. However, the diocese's denial and the bishop's illness complicate the narrative for some.
Ongania
This move by Pope Leo XIV indicates a shift towards accountability, which is necessary for the Church's credibility. Yet, the systemic issues that allowed such alleged abuse to persist for decades remain a significant challenge.
Manolo Noriega
The Church is still protecting its own. Don't be fooled by this.
Katchuka
About time the Vatican took these allegations seriously.
ytkonos
Another cover-up disguised as action. Nothing changes.