Dominique Spina, a priest in Toulouse, France, who was convicted in 2006 for the rape of a minor, has renounced his recent promotion to chancellor of the Toulouse diocese. The appointment, made in early June 2025 by the archbishop of Toulouse, faced strong opposition and was ultimately annulled following pressure from various quarters, including reportedly from the Vatican. Spina's resignation was officially announced by the archbishop, who defended the decision in a subsequent statement. This case is part of a broader context of clergy members with convictions related to sexual abuse stepping down from or being blocked from promotions within the Church. Separately, in the United Kingdom and the United States, former priests have been found guilty of multiple counts of sexual assault against women and minors, highlighting ongoing issues of abuse within religious institutions.
Former priest found guilty of 17 counts of indecent assault https://t.co/7NSMPZJarb
Vicar who led rave-style ‘cult’ in Church of England found guilty of assaulting female followers https://t.co/YJPSp2OcfX
A retired priest of the Chicago-area is being reinstated to the church after being accused of sexually abusing a minor. https://t.co/M4xJvUhzba