Pope appoints Archbishop of Westminster to oversee Northampton Diocese amid rape charges
The temporary leadership change follows allegations against Bishop Oakley
Last updated 3 hours ago
Following rape charges against Bishop David Oakley, Pope Leo has appointed the Archbishop of Westminster, Richard Moth, as Apostolic Administrator of Northampton Diocese.
Staffordshire Police confirmed Bishop Oakley faces two counts of raping a female under 16, based on allegations of offences from the past.
Oakley, who became Bishop of Northampton in 2020, has been withdrawn from public ministry since his arrest last year.
The Catholic Bishops’ Conference of England and Wales (CBCEW) released a statement that Pope Leo's temporary appointment is to ensure pastoral governance in the diocese during Oakley's absence.
Archbishop Moth expressed his gratitude for the Pope’s trust in him and requested prayers for guidance in fulfilling his duties.
He remarked on the dual role alongside his responsibilities in Westminster.
Archbishop Moth will remain based at Archbishop’s House in Westminster while attending to the Northampton community.
Bishop Oakley, aged 70, is due to appear in Cannock Magistrates’ Court on 14th August.