not with a bang but a whimper

By Diogenes ( articles ) | Oct 18, 2010

Bishop Richard Sklba was ordained as an auxiliary in Milwaukee by his Archbishop Rembert Weakland despite severe (and justifiable) misgivings in Rome. Sklba evidently repaid his patron’s confidence, keeping quiet about Weakland’s payment of hush money to a young man who charged the archbishop with abuse. Still, tainted by involvement in the cover-up and misappropriation of funds, Sklba remained an active bishop.

Over the years the same Bishop Sklba has caused consternation among the faithful by muddling Church teaching on issues such as the interpretation of the Scriptures and the circumstances when intercommunion may be licit. He has shown his versatility by celebrating the solstice and by calling for the abolition of that notoriously offensive Advent hymn, "O Come O Come Emmanuel.” Still he remained in active episcopal ministry.

Until today. Six weeks after Sklba celebrated his 75th birthday (what took so long!), the Pope has accepted his resignation.