Mike F. thinks this is weak. I'm not so sure. It tacitly admits that they haven't been teaching the truth about sexual morality, and their seminaries haven't been teaching it, either.
That, in the delicately-phrased nuances of Vatican diplomacy, is basically giving the American bishops their heads on a silver platter.
I think that Cardinal Law will not resign now, because it would appear to be caving in to media pressure. Look for Rome to wait a couple of months for the story to get old, then appoint a coadjutor bishop to watch over Law's shoulder. He'll resign later, for "personal reasons". Strictly a guess on my part.
That, in the delicately-phrased nuances of Vatican diplomacy, is basically giving the American bishops their heads on a silver platter.
A lot of people expect to hear from the Vatican in language they might hear from Bill O'Reilly. It's just not going to be that sledgehammer. The message, first of all of being summoned to Rome, then of the Pope's message and this message, is very clear to those listening.
The only remaining question is will the bishops do what they have said they will? Or will we need to find someone who can, like a papal legate?
SD