Europe

French bishop resigns, accused of 'inappropriate' behavior

Associated Press
Published | Updated

This photo dated Sept. 14, 2014 and provided by the Diocese des Landes shows French Bishop Herve Gaschignard posing for a photographer in Buglose, southern France. The French Catholic Church says that Monsignor Herve Gaschignard has resigned at the Vatican's suggestion because of accusations of an "inappropriate pastoral attitude." (Paul Perommat/Diocese des Landes via AP) (The Associated Press)

This photo dated Sept. 14, 2014 and provided by the Diocese des Landes shows French Bishop Herve Gaschignard posing for a photographer in Buglose, southern France. The French Catholic Church says that Monsignor Herve Gaschignard has resigned at the Vatican's suggestion because of accusations of an "inappropriate pastoral attitude." (Paul Perommat/Diocese des Landes via AP) (The Associated Press)

The French Catholic Church says that a French bishop has resigned at the Vatican's suggestion because of accusations of an "inappropriate pastoral attitude."

The French Conference of Bishops said in a statement that Pope Francis accepted Monsignor Herve Gaschignard's resignation Thursday, noting the "gravity" of the situation.

It said concerns about the bishop had been reported to the archbishop for the region, making it difficult for him to continue in his duties. The statement did not elaborate on the accusations against Gaschignard, bishop of Aire and Dax in southwest France.

Catholic newspaper La Croix reported that teen parishioners expressed concern about Gashignard's behavior and language.

A new book and media investigation released last month accused 25 French bishops of covering up sexual abuse by priests around France over the years.