Pope Francis expelled a German bishop from his diocese because of serious questions regarding his handling of church finances.
Bishop Franz-Peter Tebartz-van Elst had been overseeing a $43 million new residence complex that caused concern among church officials. In some parts of the country, Elst had been called the “Luxury Bishop.”
Germany has a nationwide “church tax” that brings billions a year into the church. Many Germans complain about the lack of transparency on the part of the Catholic Church and have cited the building complex as an example of extravagance.
While the Vatican said the bishop was leaving until the investigation was over, local officials and church leaders said it was unlikely Bishop Elst would return to his position. The Pope has issued clear instructions to church leaders that they are to live simply in the manner he has been demonstrating since his ascension to the papacy.