Pope Accepts Resignation of Chaldean Bishop Amid Felony Charges

Pope Leo XIV has accepted the resignation of Bishop Emanuel Hana Shaleta, the leader of the Chaldean Catholics in the Western United States, following serious legal troubles. The Vatican confirmed on March 10, 2024, that Shaleta submitted his resignation in February, which had not been publicly announced until now. Shaleta faces felony charges related to embezzlement and money laundering after his arrest at the San Diego International Airport on March 7, 2024.

The Chaldean Catholic Church, which is one of 23 Eastern Rite churches in full communion with the Catholic Church, conducts its worship in Syriac, a dialect of Aramaic. The church’s headquarters is located in Baghdad, with eparchies spread across various regions, including the Eparchy of St. Peter the Apostle, which encompasses much of the western United States. Following the resignation, Bishop Saad Hanna Sirop will serve as apostolic administrator until a new bishop is appointed.

Shaleta was arrested after being accused of misappropriating at least $270,000 in church funds, specifically rent payments for the church’s social hall. After spending four nights in jail, he pleaded not guilty to 15 felony counts on March 11, 2024. The courtroom was reportedly filled with supporters, with some unable to find space and waiting in the hallway.

During the court proceedings, San Diego District Attorney Joel Madero emphasized the severity of the case, requesting that Shaleta pay $125,000 in bail and wear an ankle monitor. Shaleta’s attorney argued that the bishop was not attempting to evade the charges. The investigation into Shaleta began last August, initiated by a representative from St. Peter Chaldean Church, who provided documents indicating potential embezzlement.

The allegations against Shaleta gained wider attention last month when the Catholic news site The Pillar reported that the Vatican was conducting an investigation into his financial activities. While Shaleta contended that the missing funds had been allocated for charitable purposes, he could not provide documentation to substantiate his claims. Additionally, he faces allegations of sexual misconduct, including a visit to an alleged brothel.

Response from Church Leadership

In light of these developments, Cardinal Louis Sako, who served as the Chaldean patriarch in Baghdad until his resignation on March 10, issued a pastoral letter to the Chaldean community in San Diego. He urged the faithful to maintain unity and harmony, avoiding division and discord. Sako stated, “I ask you to unity and harmony with a living conscience and a compassionate, faithful heart, far from the spirit of revenge or vindictiveness.”

In a statement released by the Vatican’s news site regarding his resignation, Sako clarified that his departure was voluntary and not the result of external pressure. Having reached the age of 77 — two years beyond the typical retirement age for bishops — he reflected on the challenges faced during his tenure. “I have led the Chaldean Church under extremely difficult circumstances and amid great challenges,” Sako noted, emphasizing his commitment to preserving the unity of the church’s institutions.

Reports have suggested that Sako had previously explored options to assist Shaleta in transitioning to a different role within the Chaldean leadership. The recent turmoil comes at a time when the Chaldean community has been profoundly affected by ongoing conflict in the Middle East. Notably, a drone strike targeted a Chaldean apartment building in Ankawa, Iraq, last week, which housed Christian refugees and archdiocesan workers.

As the situation unfolds, the Chaldean Catholic Church faces significant challenges both in leadership and community cohesion. The Vatican’s actions signal a firm stance on accountability, a message that resonates deeply amid the ongoing strife within the region.