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Pope Leo Accepts Resignation of Cardinal Sako who Concludes Tenure as Chaldean Patriarch
Pope Leo XIV has formally accepted the resignation of Cardinal Louis Raphaël Sako from his role as the Patriarch of Baghdad of the Chaldeans. The move follows Canon 126 §2 of the Code of Canon Law of the Eastern Churches (CCEO), marking the end of a pivotal era for the Church in Iraq.
A Voluntary Departure
In a letter released this Tuesday, the Cardinal clarified that his retirement was a personal, voluntary choice rather than the result of external pressure. He noted that he first weighed the idea of resigning at age 75 after discussions with Pope Francis, who originally encouraged him to stay on.
Cardinal Sako explained that his decision to step down now is so he can “dedicate himself quietly to prayer, writing, and simple service,” while aiming “to avoid any misunderstanding” regarding his departure.
Leading Through Crisis
Reflecting on a decade-plus of leadership in a volatile region, the Cardinal spoke to the heavy burden of his office:
“I have led the Chaldean Church under extremely difficult circumstances and amid great challenges,” Cardinal Sako writes. “I have preserved the unity of its institutions and have spared no effort to defend it.”
He further emphasized his commitment to advocacy, stating he has consistently acted for “the rights of Iraqis and Christians, taking a stand and maintaining a presence both inside and outside the country.”
Hopes for the Future
After 13 years in Baghdad—years he describes as being defined by “loving pastoral care, accompaniment, and growth”—the Cardinal expressed his vision for his successor. He hopes the Church will be led by a figure who balances intellectual depth with a lighthearted spirit.
He insists the See of Baghdad requires “someone who believes in renewal, openness, and dialogue, and who also has a sense of humor.”
A Legacy of Simplicity
In a candid revelation of his final testament, the Cardinal shared that his personal assets are modest, totaling “about forty million Iraqi dinars, five thousand U.S. dollars, and five thousand euros”—savings accumulated over 52 years of service and the sale of his family home.
Cardinal Sako concludes by affirming that he owns no real estate or vehicles, noting that his “true wealth” is found in his “devoted service and the 45 books and numerous articles” he leaves behind for the faithful.
Concluding, the Cardinal writes: "Remember me in your prayers."
Source: https://www.vaticannews.va/en/vatican-city/news/2026-03/cardinal-sako-resigns-as-chaldean-patriarch-of-baghdad.html
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