The Diocese of Quilmes in Argentina announced that by decision of the Dicastery for the Causes of Saints, the “nihil obstat” granted to the cause for the canonization of the Servant of God Bishop Jorge Novak has been revoked.
The decision, communicated by Cardinal Marcello Semeraro, prefect of the dicastery, stems from “a possible canonical procedure not carried out by Bishop Jorge Novak, SVD, regarding the conduct of a priest of the diocese,” the Diocese of Quilmes clarified.
Furthermore, the diocese clarified that this decision expresses “no moral judgment regarding the life, virtues, and pastoral ministry” of Novak and that consequently he is still recognized as a servant of God even though his cause will not proceed.
The Diocese of Quilmes and the Society of the Divine Word — co-sponsors of the canonical cause initiated on Dec. 11, 2017 — announced the news “with sorrow,” while simultaneously expressing their confidence that “God, in his immense goodness, has granted the beloved and fondly remembered Father-Bishop Jorge Novak, SVD, the joy of eternal life, even if he is not inscribed in the canonical register of the blessed and saints officially proclaimed by the Church.”
Novak, who died in 2001, was the first bishop of the Diocese of Quilmes, which was established in June 1976. His episcopal consecration took place on Sept. 19, 1976, and he remained at the helm of the diocese until his death.
He is remembered for his staunch defense of human rights during the military dictatorship in Argentina and for his care for the poor. Novak also promoted the “Mass of Hope,” which continues to be celebrated to this day.
This story was first published by ACI Prensa, the Spanish-language sister service of EWTN News. It has been translated and adapted by EWTN News English.
