Fr. Thomas G. Weinandy: The American Catholic Church: A Defense

Although much has already been written concerning Pope Francis’s elevating Bishop Robert McElroy to the College of Cardinals, I believe a critical aspect of Bishop McElroy’s appointment is missing.  It appears to many that by bestowing a red hat upon McElroy, Pope Francis has slighted Archbishop José Gómez of Los Angeles, who is, after all, the shepherd of the largest diocese in the United States, a diocese that contains multiple ethnic populations and diverse cultures. Moreover, he is a man of authentic Catholic faith, upholding the conciliar and magisterial teaching of the Church concerning faith and morals.  He is esteemed among the American hierarchy – currently serving as the President of the United States Conference of Catholic Bishops.  Given these, and other credentials, it would seem that he meets the criteria needed to be a cardinal.  The fact that he has now been passed over by Pope Francis on a number of occasions gives rise to bewilderment.  Has Pope Francis insulted Archbishop Gómez? …

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