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New Wellington Archbishop Paul Martin (left) and his predecessor CardinalJohn Dew.
Cardinal John Dew, long-time Catholic Archbishop of Wellington, has retired – on his and his successor’s birthday.
Pope Francis made the announcement in Rome last night. It coincided with Cardinal Dew’s 75th birthday, and in a coincidental twist, the 56th birthday of his successor Archbishop Paul Martin.
Cardinal Dew succeeded Cardinal Thomas Williams as Archbishop of Wellington in 2005 and was appointed as a cardinal a decade later.
He fronted the Catholic Church’s apology to survivors of abuse in its care during the inquiry’s redress hearings, saying the church “offers no excuses” for actions that have caused harm.
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Breakfast
He begged for forgiveness for the Catholic Church’s role in what he called “evil”.
“We acknowledge all victims and survivors who have not yet been able to speak or may never be able to.
“We hear you in the silence and through those who speak for you,” Dew said. “We thank you all for your bravery and courage”
The Catholic Church’s 1983 Code of Canon Law states that archdiocesan and diocesan bishops (including cardinals) are required to submit their resignation to the pope on reaching the age of 75 years.
However, Cardinal Dew remains as Apostolic Administrator of the Diocese of Palmerston North and continues with his various Vatican roles, including membership of the College of Cardinals, able to take part in papal elections until aged 80.
Archbishop Martin was the Bishop of Christchurch from December 2017 until 1 January 2021 when he was appointed Coadjutor Archbishop of Wellington. He said Cardinal Dew served Wellington and the Church with distinction and would be missed.
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