“Due to illness.” This was the reason why Angel Fernández Collado, of the Bishopric of Albacete, resigned just one month after turning 72 years old. Resignation that As announced exclusively by RDIt was accepted this afternoon by Pope Francis.
“My health has been damaged by interventions in my eyes, and by other issues that have reduced my powers of government,” the bishop, already emeritus, pointed out, visibly emotional, in front of the entire curia of the diocese that he has governed ever since. six years. “There is something that tears at my heart when I have to leave this diocese that taught me to be a bishop and a priest.”
“I will continue in the diocese until I finish the pastoral course, although I will no longer manage the diocese. In a few days, the College of Counselors must elect a director of the diocese.
“I live this moment as an expression of gratitude and communion with Pope Francis,” said Fernandez Collado, who asked for the support of “the legitimate successor of Saint Peter and Vicar of Christ on earth.”
Regarding his farewell, the Bishop wanted to thank everyone, seminarians, priests, faithful, nuns, “and the people with whom I worked side by side.” “There is something torn in my heart when I had to leave this diocese that taught me to be a bishop and a priest,” he said, clearly emotional, before apologizing “if I had managed to offend you or if I had not been able to.” I give more of myself.”
“I will continue in the diocese until I finish the pastoral cycle, although I will no longer take over the administration of the diocese. “Within a few days, the College of Counselors will have to elect a director for the diocese,” he concluded, asking the faithful “to pray for the new bishop who may arrive.” “Pray for me as I pray for you.” “I am beginning another phase of my existence as another way of serving the Church, now as an honorary.”
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