Catholic News Service
JERUSALEM — Pope Francis accepted the resignation of Melkite Archbishop Elias Chacour of Haifa.
Canon 210 of the Eastern Code of Canon Law allows for resignation for health reasons or at the age of 75. Archbishop Chacour is 74.
Last October, the well-known archbishop was called in for questioning for suspected sexual harassment of a woman who works in the community; the allegations concerned an incident that allegedly took place five years ago. Following several hours of questioning, the archbishop was released on bail under restricting conditions.
The complaint was filed two years ago, but the investigation needed special permission to proceed because of the archbishop’s standing. Archbishop Chacour was reported to have been cooperative but denied the allegations against him.
A source familiar with the church in Galilee noted that the archbishop tendered his resignation after speaking with church officials, who suggested it would be best if he resigned.
Ill health and the sexual harassment charges against him appear to be among the several reasons he resigned, said the source.
“His health is not perfect, but health is not the main reason (for his resignation),” the source told Catholic News Service. “It seems there are also the accusations, but it is a combination of reasons, the (sexual harassment) charges, mismanagement, disputes with priests. (With all these) it seems he reached the conclusion (to resign.)”
‘ Archbishop Chacour told CNS Jan. 28 that he had presented his requirement for resignation last year before any of the charges had been filed against him. He said his retirement had “no relation whatsoever” to the charges and described himself as “happily retired” in good health.
