Philip Tartaglia Takes over from Cardinal O'Brien

By Stephen McGinty
The Scotsman
February 27, 2013

http://www.scotsman.com/news/scottish-news/top-stories/philip-tartaglia-takes-over-from-cardinal-o-brien-1-2812373

Philip Tartaglia will take temporary charge.

IN perhaps the last appointment of his Papacy, Benedict XVI has named Philip Tartaglia, Archbishop of Glasgow as the Apostolic Administrator for the Archdiocese of St Andrews and Edinburgh following the scandal involving Cardinal O’Brien.

The ‘caretaker’ role will mean the Archbishop will govern the Archdiocese but will have no role in the Vatican’s investigation into the complaints raised about the Cardinal’s alleged ‘inappropriate behaviour’ to four priests.

Yesterday Archbishop Tartaglia said: “These are painful and distressing times for the Archdiocese, I also feel pained and distressed. With the grace of God, I will do my very best to oversee and govern the Archdiocese until the appointment of a new Archbishop. I ask for your prayers.”

Cardinal O’Brien is now the Archbishop Emeritus of St Andrews and Edinburgh, however as an Archbishop Emeritus he no longer has any role in the governance of a diocese.

Bishop Stephen Robson will remain as Auxiliary Bishop and will assist Archbishop Tartaglia as his Delegate in the running of the diocese. The office of Vicar General and Vicar Episcopal will lapse during the time of the vacant see, as will the Council of Priests and the Pastoral Council.

However the Offices of Chancellor and Treasurer remain, as does the College of Consultors which will operate as an Advisory Council.

Resignation

Cardinal Keith O’Brien stepped down from his position following allegations of “inappropriate behaviour” by three priests and a former priest.


A short statement issued by the Church said that, with the election of a new pope imminent, the current pontiff had decided the cardinal’s resignation, planned for next month, would take effect immediately.


Cardinal O’Brien said: “I have valued the opportunity of serving the people of Scotland and overseas in various ways since becoming a priest.


“Looking back over my years of ministry, for any good I have been able to do, I thank God. For any failures, I apologise to all whom I have offended.”