Bellaigue's Benedictine Monks Falling Apart: Alleged Revolt - Kidnapping Investigation
His absence was discovered at Matins the following morning. More than two days later, he was found injured in the neighboring department of Haute-Vienne. French prosecutors opened an investigation for kidnapping and unlawful confinement.
French media report that he was found bearing injuries consistent with an assault, although authorities have not disclosed the nature of his injuries or explained how he came to be in Haute-Vienne.
Eleven monks allegedly attempted to take control of the monastery on the same night that Dom Placide disappeared.
An email sent from Dom Placide's account announced his resignation as prior. Investigators are trying to determine whether he wrote it voluntarily, under duress, or whether someone else sent it. They also reportedly found his room completely emptied and carefully cleaned, suggesting his departure may have been staged.
Many details remain unconfirmed.
Historical Background
Restored in the early 2000s, Notre-Dame de Bellaigue is home to around twenty Benedictine monks.
The monastery was allied with the Priestly Fraternity of Saint Pius X (FSSPX). In 2019, after what the FSSPX described as "internal difficulties," the Fraternity broke ties with Dom Placide Dumas. Bellaigue later aligned itself with Bishop Richard Williamson.
Picture: Placide Dumas, © LaPorteLatine.org, #newsEgxkfiudez