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Pope Francis recently appointed Cardinal Jean-Pierre Kutwa as Apostolic Administrator “Sede plena” of the Catholic Diocese of Man in Côte d’Ivoire. This appointment, announced on December 27 by the Apostolic Nuncio, Archbishop Mauricio Rueda Beltz, comes amidst tensions between Bishop Gaspard Béby Gnéba of the Diocese of Man and the local clergy. The controversy stems from a pastoral letter dated January 4, 2024, in which Bishop Gnéba urged the faithful to report priests unfaithful to their vocation, citing cases of celibacy violations, sexual abuse, and financial misconduct. He described silence on these issues as “a sin of complicity,” referencing the Holy Father’s directives for zero tolerance toward such behavior.

This situation led the Vatican to organize an apostolic visitation, carried out by Archbishop Roger Houngbédji of Cotonou, who visited Man in August 2024. Following the visitation, Cardinal Kutwa, aged 79, was entrusted with the pastoral and administrative management of the diocese while keeping Bishop Gnéba in his role. This period, referred to as a “spiritual renewal” for Bishop Gnéba, aims to restore unity and peace within the local Church.

The Apostolic Nuncio clarified that Cardinal Kutwa, as Apostolic Administrator, will collaborate with the clergy and the faithful to heal the wounds caused by these tensions. While temporary, this measure reflects the Holy See’s commitment to reconciliation and spiritual restoration under the authority of the Holy Father. Additionally, it was emphasized that Bishop Gnéba will remain involved in significant diocesan events but will refrain from making administrative decisions.

Born in Blockhauss in the Archdiocese of Abidjan, Cardinal Kutwa was ordained a priest in 1971 and has held various episcopal responsibilities before being created a cardinal in 2014. After serving as the Metropolitan Archbishop of Abidjan, he retired in May 2024. His current appointment demonstrates Pope Francis’ trust in his experience and ability to lead the Diocese of Man toward lasting reconciliation.

This decision underscores the Church’s essential role as an instrument of peace and forgiveness. The Vatican’s message is clear: beyond internal conflicts, the ultimate goal remains preserving unity and communion among the people of God. This appointment serves as a call to fraternity and healing, embodying the Holy Father’s spiritual commitment to a Church journeying toward the light.

Rev. Fr. George Nwachukwu
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