Pope Francis Accepts Resignation of Bishop Blais Amid Abuse Allegations

Pope Francis has accepted the resignation of Canadian Bishop Jean-Pierre Blais, who is implicated in a class-action lawsuit alleging sexual abuse within the Archdiocese of Quebec. Although Blais, 75, is included on a list of alleged sexual predators, he has denied any wrongdoing. The Vatican clarified that Blais's resignation was routine, as bishops are required to submit their resignation upon reaching 75, and not directly connected to the allegations against him. Reverend Pierre Charland has been appointed as the new bishop of Baie-Comeau. The Diocese of Baie-Comeau emphasized that the transition followed customary procedures and was not influenced by the ongoing lawsuit. Both the Canadian Conference of Catholic Bishops and the diocese have not commented further on the situation.