Bishop Paskalis Bruno Syukur has resigned as head of the Diocese of Bogor following allegations of mismanagement. The resignation, accepted by the Holy See on January 19, brings an abrupt end to a tenure marked by both prominence and controversy, including his recent refusal of a cardinalate in 2024.
A Rare Resignation
The resignation of the 63-year-old Bishop Syukur is unusual, as bishops typically offer their resignation at age 75. No public indication of illness preceded the decision, and the Vatican has not released a formal reason for accepting it. Bishop Christophorus Tri Harsono of Purwokerto has been appointed apostolic administrator until a successor is named.
In a farewell address, Bishop Syukur stated he resigned “not with a sense of loss but with freedom of heart,” and maintained he was “not guilty” but acted “because I love the brotherhood and unity of the Church.”
Escalating Tensions
The resignation follows escalating tensions within the diocese stemming from accusations made by two priests, Father Yosep Sirilus Natet and Father Yoseph Kristinus Guntur. They publicly accused Bishop Syukur of authoritarian leadership, abuse of power, financial mismanagement, and allowing personal relationships to influence diocesan policy.
A key point of contention was the bishop’s decision to transfer control of a hospital run by the Franciscan Sisters of Sukabumi to lay management, a move critics characterized as an “expulsion” of the sisters. The priests also questioned the bishop’s December replacement of senior curial officials, alleging a lack of transparency and collaborative decision-making.
Bishop Syukur defended his actions as motivated by “love for the Church” and a desire to avoid “further confusion.” He denied financial mismanagement and dismissed claims of impropriety, characterizing accusations regarding personal relationships as relating to professional contacts undertaken “for the advancement of the diocese.”
Investigation and Aftermath
The Holy See responded by appointing an investigative team led by Bishop Antonius Subianto Bunjamin of Bandung. Bishop Syukur reportedly travelled to Rome earlier this month to address the accusations before submitting his resignation. The situation also follows his unexpected refusal last October to accept a cardinalate offered by Pope Francis, a decision he later attributed to accusations of mishandling sexual abuse cases – claims he maintains he addressed appropriately by ensuring the perpetrators were imprisoned.
Bishop Syukur’s departure is part of a growing trend of relatively young bishops appointed under Pope Francis leaving office early, often amidst internal conflict and Vatican intervention.
Frequently Asked Questions
What prompted Bishop Syukur’s resignation?
Bishop Syukur resigned amid allegations of mismanagement, authoritarian leadership, and improper influence, as raised by two priests within the Diocese of Bogor. The Holy See accepted his resignation on January 19.
What is the role of the apostolic administrator?
Bishop Christophorus Tri Harsono of Purwokerto has been appointed apostolic administrator to oversee the Diocese of Bogor until a new bishop is named by the Vatican.
Was a formal reason given for accepting the resignation?
No, the Vatican did not provide a formal reason for accepting Bishop Syukur’s resignation.
As the Diocese of Bogor transitions to new leadership, what impact will this situation have on the relationship between the Church hierarchy and its clergy in Indonesia?
