ST. PAUL — Some Catholics in Minneapolis and St. Paul are hoping that Archbishop John Nienstedt’s resignation will prompt parishioners who have been withholding donations to start giving again.

Nienstedt resigned Monday amid a two-year controversy over his handling of sexual abuse by priests. The archdiocese filed for bankruptcy in January due to concerns that it wouldn’t be able to compensate clergy sexual abuse victims, and a judge ordered all parties into mediation.

Nienstedt’s resignation probably won’t affect the bankruptcy, but it could encourage donations to the archdiocese and its 187 parishes.

Catholics in the Twin Cities had become frustrated with Nienstedt’s handling of sex-abuse allegations and campaign against same-sex marriage.