Grimmenstein´s Case: The Resignation of the Canon of Olomouc and Prelate Grimmenstein from the Canonry Due to Non‑Observance of Residence

Josef Grimmenstein, thanks to his noble origin and the favor of the Habsburg�‑Lorraine ruling family, became a�canon of the Metropolitan Capital of Olomouc, although he never worked pastorally in the Archdiocese. He neglected his duties as a�canon, and was mostly outside the Archdiocese. He justified his absence (his neglect of residence obligations) by health problems. In addition, reports appeared from time to time about his debts or non�‑priestly behavior. Archbishops Cardinal Skrbensk� and Stojan urged him to adhere to the residence, but the change did not occur. Archbishop Leopold Pre�an did not want to continue to tolerate Grimmenstein’s neglect of the discipline when Grimmenstein asked for a�two�‑year dispensation from the duty of residence for health reasons (1924), Pre�an refused to grant the dispensation, stating that Rome would have to decide. Rome, in light of Grimmenstein�s previous deliberations, ordered a resignation and a proposed retirement. Grimmenstein tried to defend himself and did not hesitate to use various means including a number of influential friends. The Congregation confirmed their decision, however, and he finally received a raise of pension from 10,000 CZK to 20,000 CZK, thanks to the generosity of the Chapter which paid the pension (due, however, to outstanding debts part of his pension was confiscated by the bank). He also asked for further financial help in the following years, arguing for his poor financial status (he did not add, however, that he had incurred it himself). He stayed in Paris and then in Rome, where Pre�an regularly sent him not only confirmation of his priesthood (celebret), but especially financial help. After the onset of Nazism and the dissolution of Czechoslovakia, he travelled more likely to the Protectorate or the Nazi Reich and did not hesitate to engage in negotiations with the Nazi authorities.