POLAND
Radio Poland
The papal nuncio in Warsaw has intervened after indications that a Polish bishop once accused of molesting seminarians was due to take part in events marking the 1050th anniversary of the Baptism of Poland.
In a statement released by the Polish Episcopate on Wednesday, the Church confirmed that the Vatican opposes Archbishop Juliusz Paetz playing any role in this week’s events.
“Once again, the papal nuncio personally reminded Archbishop Juliusz Paetz today of the instructions he received three years ago that he should refrain from participating in public celebrations,” the statement clarifies.
“It is hard to imagine that this would not be maintained during celebrations attended by the papal legate, not to mention the visit of the Holy Father in Poland on the occasion of World Youth Day [in July].”
Celebrations marking the Baptism of Poland are due to be held on Friday in Poznań, western Poland. Paetz was Archbishop of Poznań before being compelled to stand down in March 2002, although he retains the role of senior bishop in the city.
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