Pope accepts resignation of Bishop Boland of Kansas City-St. Joseph

Published: 2005-05-24

WASHINGTON (CNS) -- Pope Benedict XVI has accepted the resignation of Bishop Raymond J. Boland of Kansas City-St. Joseph, Mo. He will be succeeded by his coadjutor, Bishop Robert W. Finn. Archbishop Gabriel Montalvo, apostolic nuncio to the United States, made the announcement May 24 in Washington. Bishop Boland, 73, has headed the diocese since 1993. He said in a statement posted on the diocesan Web site that he had "enjoyed almost every moment of it." He added, "Some dreams were not fulfilled, but in 12 years I have witnessed many magnificent accomplishments crafted by the dedicated and hardworking priests, religious and lay people whom it has been my privilege to lead and to serve." Bishop Boland did not specify why he was retiring two years before the usual retirement age for bishops, but said, "A diocese is not well served by a bishop whose energy is compromised by ailments too boring to enumerate."

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