ADSome canon law experts said it was the first case they had heard of involving a bishop being made to pay restitution — publicly or privately. In addition to calling for Bransfield’s replacement to come up with a restitution plan, the Vatican also prohibited Bransfield from public ministry and from residing in the West Virginia diocese. The initial plan called for him to pay $792,638; the Vatican deal agreed to $441,000, according to a letter Brennan wrote to the diocese. Under the Vatican deal, however, West Virginia’s diocese will still cover Bransfield’s health insurance, and his monthly stipend will be $2,250. The Vatican media office did not immediately respond to requests for comment on why the Congregation of Bishops softened Brennan’s proposed restitution.

Source: Washington Post August 20, 2020 14:43 UTC