The Canadian Cardinal temporarily suspends his position after allegations

Quebec January 27, 2024 (KAP/KNA) After allegations of sexual assault, the Archbishop of Quebec in Canada, Cardinal Gerald Cyprien Lacroix (66 years old), is withdrawing from all his positions for the time being. “He strongly denies the accusations made against him since yesterday and considers them to be unfounded,” the Diocese of Quebec said on Friday (local time). This will be followed by a personal statement from the Cardinal in the coming days.

On Thursday, Canadian media reported allegations against Lacroix. The monk, the head of the church in Canada, is said to have sexually touched a 17-year-old girl during two Bible meetings between 1987 and 1988. Accordingly, LaCroix's name appears in court documents as part of a major class action lawsuit. The diocese confirmed that it will continue to work to clarify cases of violation and provide compensation to those affected.

Lacroix, Archbishop of Quebec since 2011, holds important positions at the Vatican in addition to his bishopric and honorary role as head of the Catholic Church in Canada. Appointed a cardinal by Francis in 2014, he is a close advisor to the pope as a member of the so-called Council of Cardinals. The Council of Cardinals is supposed to support Francis in reforming the Curia and the government of the universal Church.

Lacroix has been the North American representative on the Council since 2023. He is also a member of several Vatican bodies, such as those on culture and education, the laity, family and life and of the Vatican Economic Council. His name has long been circulated in the Canadian media as a possible successor to Francis (87).