Cardinal writes to Pope Benedict XVI to offer his resignation as Archbishop of Westminster

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FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE
9th July 2007

Cardinal Cormac Murphy-O’Connor sent the following letter around the Diocese this morning (9 July).

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9 July 2007

To the Auxiliary Bishops and Priests of the Diocese of Westminster

Dear Father

On the occasion of my 75th birthday in August and in accordance with Canon Law, I have written to Pope Benedict offering my resignation as Archbishop of Westminster.

In the response I have received the Holy Father has invited me instead to continue in my present pastoral ministry donec aliter provideatur – that is, until he chooses otherwise. I am very content to accept the Holy Father’s request.

I ask you again for your prayers and I am grateful for your support and co-operation in our care of this Diocese.

With sincere good wishes,

Cardinal Cormac Murphy-O’Connor

Archbishop of Westminster