Pope Francis dismisses National Director of Priests for Life from the priesthood

Father Frank Pavone has been dismissed from the Catholic priesthood over what the Vatican has called “blasphemous communications on social media” and persistent disobedience of the lawful instructions of his diocesan bishop.”

Pavone has been a full-throated supporter of Donald Trump, and is unforgiving on his pro-life stance as the national director of Priests for Life. No clear reason other than “blasphemy” has been given, and what comprises the basis for that accusation has also not been revealed.

A letter from Archbishop Christophe Pierre, the Apostolic Nuncio to the United States on Dec. 13, and obtained by Catholic News Agency, said that there was “no possibility of appeal” for Pavone. 

“Father Pavone was given ample opportunity to defend himself in the canonical proceedings, and he was also given multiple opportunities to submit himself to the authority of his diocesan bishop,” read a statement attached to the letter. “It was determined that Father Pavone had no reasonable justification for his actions.”

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