They didn't want him to be the sole decision-maker? It's really not up to them! Parish councils are consultative in nature but the priest has the ultimate authority. That is canon law, my friend.
I have knelt for Communion at St. Anthony's and don't recall it being at all painful. I'm sure Father would still give Communion to someone who only stood and bowed their head in reverence. In fact, he'd have to. That, too, is canon law. And Father would be the first one to tell you that!
"This isn't about you and I, but about the parish."
It's ALL about you. That's the problem.
So now the people have to change their traditions for the past 50+ years, which is kneeling for communion for the convenience of a temporary administrator ???? Canon law not withstanding.