Britain’s most senior Roman Catholic cleric Cardinal Keith O’Brien, who is facing allegations of inappropriate behaviour, is stepping down with immediate effect.
He said he tendered his resignation some time ago, but added: “The Holy Father has now decided that my resignation will take effect today.”
Cardinal O’Brien, Archbishop of Saint Andrews and Edinburgh, said he would not be joining the conclave to choose a successor to Pope Benedict XVI, explaining: “I do not wish media attention in Rome to be focused on me but rather on Pope Benedict XVI and on his successor.”
In a statement issued by the Scottish Catholic Church, he said: “I have valued the opportunity of serving the people of Scotland and overseas in various ways since becoming a priest. Looking back over my years of ministry: For any good I have been able to do, I thank God. For any failures, I apologise to all whom I have offended.
“I thank Pope Benedict XVI for his kindness and courtesy to me and on my own behalf and on behalf of the people of Scotland, I wish him a long and happy retirement. I also ask God’s blessing on my brother Cardinals who will soon gather in Rome to elect his successor.”
He added: “May God who has blessed me so often in my ministry continue to bless and help me in the years which remain for me on earth and may he shower his blessings on all the peoples of Scotland especially those I was privileged to serve in a special way in the Archdiocese of Saint Andrews and Edinburgh.”
For full reaction to the cardinal’s resignation, see Tuesday’s Courier or try our new digital edition.