Full Breakdown
Pope Leo XIV Accepts Resignation of New Orleans Archbishop Gregory Aymond
2/12/2026, 3:32:42 AM
Resignation and Succession of Leadership
On February 11, 2026, Pope Leo XIV accepted the resignation of Archbishop Gregory Aymond, who had served as the Archbishop of New Orleans since 2009. Aymond, who turned 76, had submitted his resignation upon reaching the mandatory retirement age for bishops. His resignation followed a series of meetings with survivors of a clergy molestation scandal that has significantly impacted the archdiocese. James Checchio, previously appointed as coadjutor archbishop in September 2025, has succeeded Aymond and will officially take over the pastoral governance of the archdiocese.
Background on the Clergy Abuse Crisis
The Archdiocese of New Orleans has been embroiled in a long-standing clergy abuse crisis, leading to its filing for federal bankruptcy protection in May 2020. This decision was part of efforts to address claims from over 600 survivors of clergy sexual abuse. In December 2024, the archdiocese reached a settlement of approximately $305 million with these survivors. Aymond's tenure has been marked by scrutiny over the handling of abuse cases, including the protection of serial child molester Lawrence Hecker, who was charged and later died in prison.
Official Statements & Responses
In a statement, Archbishop Checchio expressed his eagerness to serve the local Catholic community, stating, “These three months since my arrival in New Orleans have gone by very quickly as I learn more about our local Church.” The US Catholic Conference of Bishops confirmed the acceptance of Aymond's resignation but did not include remarks from Aymond himself. He had indicated his desire to meet with survivors before his resignation was finalized.
Criticism & Opposition
Critics, including members of the Survivors Network of those Abused by Priests (SNAP), have expressed dissatisfaction with Aymond's record on handling abuse cases. They argue that he has not taken the issue seriously enough, despite his claims of learning from past mistakes. The archdiocese's history of protecting abusers has raised concerns about accountability within its leadership.
What's Next
James Checchio is set to celebrate his first Mass as the Archbishop of New Orleans on Ash Wednesday, February 18, 2026, at St. Louis Cathedral. His leadership comes at a critical time as the archdiocese continues to navigate the aftermath of the clergy abuse scandal and its financial implications.
Verbatim Quotes
- “These three months since my arrival in New Orleans have gone by very quickly as I learn more about our local Church and seek to understand how God is calling me to best serve this beautiful part of His vineyard,” — Archbishop James Checchio
- “painful experience — I will never forget it. It helped me to understand the complexity of pedophilia better.” — Archbishop Gregory Aymond on his past experiences with abuse cases.