Duluth Bishop-Elect Michel Mulloy Resigns After Abuse Allegation

DULUTH, MN — Duluth Bishop-elect Michel Mulloy has resigned following a recent accusation that he abused a minor in the 1980s in the Diocese of Rapid City, South Dakota.

Mulloy was appointed the Bishop of Duluth on June 19.

"I have learned that our Holy Father, Pope Francis, has accepted the resignation of Bishop-elect Michel Mulloy," Father James B. Bissonette, diocesan administrator for the Diocese of Duluth, said in a statement Monday.

"Sadly, that notification was accompanied by an announcement from the Diocese of Rapid City of an accusation of sexual abuse of a minor made against Father Mulloy as a priest of that diocese. We grieve with all who have suffered sexual abuse and their loved ones. I ask you to pray for the person who has come forward with this accusation, for Father Mulloy, for the faithful of our diocese, and for all affected. We place our hope and trust in God’s providence as we await, again, the appointment of our next bishop."

The Diocese of Rapid City said it was notified of the allegation against Mulloy on Aug. 7. Bishop Peter Muhich of Rapid City informed law enforcement, and Mulloy was directed to refrain from engaging in ministry, church officials said.

After an initial investigation, the Vatican was informed and Mulloy received a summary of the specific allegation against him.

He then submitted his resignation.

Msgr. James Bissonnette will continue to serve the Diocese of Duluth as Diocesan Administrator, until the appointment of a new Bishop.

The Diocese of Rapid City says it "has no other allegations of sexual abuse involving Father Mulloy."