Diocese says McCarrick to stay at friary for now

VATICAN CITY (AP) – A Kansas diocese says disgraced former Cardinal Theodore McCarrick will continue to live at a local friary “until a decision of permanent residence is finalized.”

McCarrick had moved to the St. Fidelis Friary in Victoria, Kansas, in September after Pope Francis ordered him to live in penance and prayer while the investigation into his actions continued.

McCarrick was defrocked after being found guilty by the Vatican of sex abuse, including while hearing confession.

In a statement Saturday, Bishop Gerald L. Vincke of the Salina, Kansas, diocese said he hopes the Vatican’s decision will “help bring healing to all affected by sexual abuse and those hurt by this scandal.”