Vatican removes Texas bishop who opposed discussions on LGBTQ issues – By Patrick Hilsman (UPI) / Nov 11, 2023
Nov. 11 (UPI) — The Vatican, under the direction of Pope Francis, announced Saturday it has dismissed Joseph Strickland after the Texas-based bishop criticized the Church for discussing possible reforms on LGBTQ rights.
Strickland, who was appointed as bishop for the Tyler Diocese in Texas in 2012 by Pope Benedict XVI, was removed from his post and Bishop Joe Vásquez of Austin was appointed as apostolic administrator of the same diocese, the Vatican said.
Strickland came under scrutiny in August after writing a letter attacking the papacy for expressing flexibility on discussions of LGBTQ issues and the ban on priests getting married.
