Australia's Catholic priests have called on the Pope to sack Adelaide Archbishop Philip Wilson, saying his refusal to resign from the role is "galling."
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In May, Wilson became the most senior Catholic cleric to be convicted of not disclosing to police abuse by another priest.
The National Council of Priests say his position has been compromised and the welfare of Adelaide's Catholics must come first.
"The executive of the NCP requests that the Holy Father, Pope Francis, removes Archbishop Philip Wilson from his See," the council said in a statement issued on Friday. "Archbishop Wilson remained in office for the duration of his trial. He only stood down after his conviction. This appearance of inequity is an affront to natural justice and galling to both priests and laity."
The council said parishioner welfare “must take precedence over the desire of an individual to remain in office.”
Prime Minister Malcolm Turnbull on Thursday called for the Pope to sack Wilson.
