This morning for the 1st time in its 172 year history, the Catholic Diocese of Buffalo had a Bishop step down from their position.

Bishop Richard Malone's resignation was accepted by the Vatican and Pope Francis.

According to Catholic law, all bishops are required to submit their resignation to the pope when they turn 75, but Bishop Malone is 73. In a statement, he cited the turmoil caused by the Catholic Church's clergy sexual abuse cases as his reason for his early resignation.

Bishop Malone will be replaced on a temporary basis by Albany’s bishop, Edward B. Scharfenberger.

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