Say it ain't so!

By Phil Lawler ( bio - articles - email ) | Jun 02, 2003

Please, please someone tell me that the media in Arizona have the story wrong.

Please tell me that the apostolic nuncio did not believe that accepting the resignation of Bishop O'Brien would be bowing to external pressure.

Look, I don't want the Holy See to be jerked around by public officials, either. But Bishop O'Brien admitted to lying-- a lot-- to protecting predators, to putting the interests of his office above those of his flock. There are plenty of reasons for accepting his resignation-- whether or not it is offered!-- without any pressure at all from outside the Church.

Or look at it this way: Suppose there's a thoroughly corrupt and detestible bishop, and the Vatican realizes that he must be removed from office. But suppose that bishop wants to remain in office, enjoying the perquisites and usufructs of office. Can he then protect himself by convincing the local newspaper to write nasty editorials-- so that removing him would look like bowing to pressure?