Some believe that Martino was forced out by the Church simply because the pro-abortion politicians have so much power of them.
I’m not sure I believe that, but I do believe that the Catholic Church must be more forceful against those who do not believe or adhere to its principles. The Church should prepare itself to be smaller, yet more focused as a result.
Over time, the flock will return.
IMO, his statement reveals the very sad primary reason for his request to 'retire' (my emphasis):
For some time now, there has not been a clear consensus among the clergy and people of the Diocese of Scranton regarding my pastoral initiatives or my way of governance. This development has caused me great sorrow, resulting in bouts of insomnia and at times a crippling physical fatigue.
God bless this faithful Bishop and I do agree with you that the flock will return.
I think "some" are wrong. The Catholic Church has been the most consistent, vocal, 'institutional', pro-life voice in this country. Sure, there are some outspoken pro-abortion politicians who consider themselves Catholic, but the Church itself is, and consistently HAS been, pro-life.