Stanislas Lalanne, emeritus Bishop of Pontoise, dies at 78

Mgr Stanislas Lalanne, the emeritus Bishop of Pontoise and former Secretary General of the Conference of Bishops of France, died suddenly during the night of August 16–17, 2026, in his 79th year.

Lalanne served as the Bishop of Pontoise from 2013 to 2024. His predecessor in the diocese, Mgr Benoît Bertrand, described the news as a shock and praised Lalanne’s energetic ministry and passion for the Gospel. Lalanne’s career included serving as the Bishop of Coutances and Avranches starting in 2007 and holding significant leadership roles within the French hierarchy, including Deputy Secretary General of the Conference of Bishops from 1999 to 2001.

In addition to religious tributes, the Prefect of Val-d’Oise recognized Lalanne as an eminent figure in interreligious dialogue, noting his ability to maintain relationships with public authorities and various religious representatives based on mutual respect and trust.