Prague Archbishop sends resignation letter to Pope

The Archbishop of Prague Jan Graubner has sent his resignation letter to Pope Francis after one year in office. All bishops are required to submit their resignation on turning 75, although the Pope may choose to extend their term in office. Graubner is due to celebrate his 75th birthday on August 29 but has stated that he is ready to continue in the role as long as needed.

Graubner became the 37th Archbishop of Prague at the beginning of August last year, after several years of waiting to take over from Cardinal Dominik Duka, who held the position for 12 years. Duka submitted his resignation upon turning 75 as required in April 2018 but was invited by Pope Francis to continue in office. Duka announced his successor only last year and Pope Francis finally accepted his resignation in May 2022.