Cardinal Cristóbal López Romero has temporarily withdrawn from public ministry as the Catholic Church investigates allegations.
Newsroom (08/07/2026 Gaudium Press ) Cardinal Cristóbal López Romero, the Archbishop of Rabat, has announced a temporary withdrawal from all public and pastoral ministry while the Roman Catholic Church conducts a preliminary investigation into allegations of inappropriate behaviour involving adult women.
The 74-year-old Spanish cardinal disclosed the decision in a message addressed to the diocesan community at the close of the pastoral year. In his statement, he confirmed that the matter is now under the jurisdiction of the competent authorities of the Holy See and emphasized his intention to cooperate fully with the ecclesiastical process.
“I am accused of inappropriate behavior with respect to adult women,” Cardinal López Romero stated, noting that the investigation is currently being handled within the Church’s established procedures.
To avoid any perception of interference with the inquiry, the Archbishop said he would temporarily refrain from presiding over public liturgical celebrations and participating in pastoral activities. He described the step as necessary while Church authorities carry out their examination of the allegations.
“During this period of investigation, and so as not to hinder it, I will step back, refraining from presiding over any public celebrations and from participating in any pastoral activities,” he said.
The cardinal also acknowledged the concerns and uncertainty the situation may cause among the faithful. He said he believed it was important to communicate openly with members of the diocesan community, recognizing that the allegations could generate legitimate questions and distress.
In his message, López Romero appealed for understanding and prayers, asking Catholics to remember those affected by the situation, the Church in Morocco, and himself during the ongoing process.
“While awaiting the decisions that the Church will make, let us pray together for the people who are suffering in this situation, let us pray for our Church, let us pray for one another and pray for me,” he said.
In a separate statement to AFP and comments reported by EFE, the cardinal firmly denied the allegations and asserted his innocence. “I have not committed any assault, violence, or sexual harassment,” he said, reiterating his willingness to cooperate fully with investigators.
The Archdiocese of Rabat also highlighted the availability of a listening and support service for individuals who wish to express concerns or provide information related to the case. The measure aims to ensure that members of the community have a channel through which they can seek assistance or share relevant information while the investigation proceeds.
Despite the challenges posed by the situation, the archbishop encouraged the faithful to remain united and focused on their spiritual mission. He stressed the importance of continuing to live the Gospel with confidence and maintaining the vitality of the local Church.
“Our diocesan Church is alive; let us continue, with confidence, to nourish it with a love for the Gospel. Let us remain united and allow life with Christ to reach us and propel us forward, which is the most important thing,” the statement concluded.
The Vatican press office, when contacted regarding the matter, referred inquiries to the statement issued by Cardinal López Romero.
No further details regarding the allegations or the timeline of the preliminary investigation have been made public. The Church investigation remains ongoing, and ecclesiastical authorities are expected to determine the next steps once the process is completed.
- Raju Hasmukh with files from Vatican News and ACI Prensa
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