Investigations revealed alleged misappropriation of church funds by Bishop Franz - Peter Tebartz - van Elst of Limburg over several years .
A spate of nationwide resignations and protest occurred in late 2013 caused by what church officials termed as the ' Tebartz - effect ' .
Investigations revealed alleged misappropriation of church funds by Tebartz Tebartz             of Limburg over several years .
A spate of nationwide resignations and protest occurred in late 2013 caused by what church officials termed as the ' Tebartz - effect ' .