BUFFALO, N.Y. — The Catholic Diocese of Buffalo is now searching for a new communications director.

Bishop Richard Malone announced Wednesday that George Richert is stepping down from the position as of September 7.

Richert joined the Diocese in March of 2016 after a 17-year career in broadcast journalism.  

"George is a man of faith -- it probably was the best move for him at the time," said Steve Reszka of Reszka & Associates. "We were all very happy for him when he was able to make that move.”

Bishop Malone said Richert was a valued member of his team and is thankful for his time in the diocese.

“I am extremely grateful to George for his counsel during his tenure with the diocese, especially in these tumultuous times,” Malone said.

Richert refused to comment on why he resigned.

This comes a little less than a week after several local officials called for the bishop to resign, claiming he ignored sexual abuse allegations against local priests.

Malone admitted he failed to properly investigate some of those accusations but is refusing to leave his post.

A replacement has not yet been named.

Steve Reszka has some advice for the next spokesperson who will assume the role.  

"You've got to keep in mind the honesty that's got to come out of the Diocese on what happened and what you're going to continue to move on from," Reszka said.  "Second thing you're going to have to do is work with Diocese attorneys, cause it's the attorney's job to protect the business part.  The third thing, and the hardest thing, they've got to speak truth to the power, meaning they've got to be straight with the bishop. He's your boss, but too bad, you've got to be honest with the bishop on what has to happen."