Diocese of Passau Confirms Priest's Departure Amid Misconduct Allegations
The priest disputes the resignation claim and denies allegations of excessive alcohol use and 'spiritual manipulation,' as new accusations are referred to state authorities.
- The Diocese of Passau maintains the priest will no longer serve as of March 24, 2025, citing his verbal offers to resign in front of witnesses.
- The priest, through his lawyer, denies resigning and claims the Diocese's announcement is based on a misunderstanding.
- Misconduct allegations include excessive alcohol use during youth trips and 'spiritual manipulation,' which the priest's lawyer has dismissed as baseless.
- Bishop Stefan Oster has imposed a temporary ban on the priest from celebrating Mass and appearing publicly as a priest.
- New allegations against the priest have been referred to state authorities for further investigation, reflecting broader concerns about institutional accountability.
Stern 
Die Zeit 