Archdiocese of Washington Statement on the Holy See’s Judgment on Former Archbishop Theodore E. McCarrick

WASHINGTON, D.C. – Today it was announced in Rome that at the conclusion of a penal process the Congregation for the Doctrine of the Faith imposed on former Archbishop Theodore E. McCarrick the penalty of his dismissal from the clerical state, thus prohibiting him any type of priestly ministry. Currently, he is carrying out a life of prayer and penance in a Religious House. Following is the statement from the Archdiocese of Washington:

The imposition on former Archbishop Theodore E. McCarrick of the penalty of his dismissal from the clerical state, thus prohibiting him any type of priestly ministry, underscores the gravity of his actions.

Our hope and prayer is that this decision serves to help the healing process for survivors of abuse, as well as those who have experienced disappointment or disillusionment because of what former Archbishop McCarrick has done. We also pray that the Church may be guided to move forward in her mission.

Church law indicates that one who has lost the clerical state cannot function in any way as a bishop, priest, or deacon. He cannot celebrate the sacraments nor wear clerical attire or be addressed by his former title.

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