By Thomas Scaria
Mysore, Jan 9, 2023: Archbishop Emeritus Bernard Moras taken over as the apostolic administrator of Mysore diocese after its bishop was “asked to go for leave” by the Vatican.
According to a press release by the Public Relations Officer of the diocese, Archbishop Moras took charge January 7 at a ceremony held at St. Philomena’s Cathedral on in Mysore, a major city in the southern Indian state of Karnataka.
Bishop Kannikadass Antony William of Mysore, who is facing several allegations, including sexual assaults, has gone on a “medical leave” until he is proved innocent.
Archbishop Felix Machado, secretary general of the Catholic Bishops’ Conference of India (CBCIsays the Dicastery for Evangelization has decided that Bishop William takes a “period of absence from the ministry.”
Another communication from the Apostolic Nunciature in New Delhi said Archbishop Moras will act as the apostolic administrator with immediate effect.
A few years ago, as many as 37 priests of the Mysore diocese had written to the Vatican authorities alleging that Bishop William had indulged in misappropriations of funds and violation of celibacy. A woman had also filed a suit against the bishop stating she was allured for sexual favors in exchange of receiving a job.
“It was unfortunate that the bishop stuck to his position for so long despite several allegations,” said Father Faustine Lobo, the spokesperson of the Karnataka Regional Catholic Bishops’ Council.
Father Lobo welcomed the Vatican decision, although it was delayed. “In fact, Bishop William should have voluntarily gone for a leave long ago and prove his innocence,” he told Matters India on January 9.