Story perspectives

New Orleans Archdiocese Settles $305M Abuse Case; Aymond Resigns

2/11/2026

Summary

Story summary

Pope Leo XIV accepted New Orleans Archbishop Gregory Aymond's resignation on February 11, 2026.
The Vatican delayed acceptance until the archdiocese settled a bankruptcy case tied to clergy molestation.
The Archdiocese of New Orleans agreed to pay $305 million to roughly 600 survivors.
Archbishop James Checchio will succeed Aymond as investigations continue, including allegations of a cover-up involving priest Lawrence Hecker, who was charged with child rape.

History

Historical Context

In May 2020, the Archdiocese of New Orleans filed for Chapter 11 bankruptcy, citing $38 million in debts and the financial strain from numerous clergy abuse lawsuits. By 2022, it agreed to pay $305 million to around 600 survivors, reflecting a long history of abuse allegations, including those against Lawrence Hecker, and ongoing scrutiny of the church's handling of these cases.

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Story summary

Pope Leo XIV accepted New Orleans Archbishop Gregory Aymond's resignation on February 11, 2026.
The Vatican delayed acceptance until the archdiocese settled a bankruptcy case tied to clergy molestation.
The Archdiocese of New Orleans agreed to pay $305 million to roughly 600 survivors.
Archbishop James Checchio will succeed Aymond as investigations continue, including allegations of a cover-up involving priest Lawrence Hecker, who was charged with child rape.

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