[BlatherNaut]

Cardinal Burke has made it clear that he is unhappy with the Pope's leadership (e.g. “a ship without a rudder”). His remarks do constitute criticism, are widely perceived as such, and are an indication of his grave concerns regarding the direction of this papacy. In speaking out (his efforts at diplomacy notwithstanding), he risks further retaliation against himself and others. The laity, not bound by the same constraints as members of the clergy, have more freedom to object.

Mocking appellations (generally tossed out by non-Catholics) contribute nothing useful.

[Mrs. Don-o]

"Cardinal Burke has made it clear that he is unhappy with the Pope's leadership (e.g. “a ship without a rudder”). His remarks do constitute criticism, are widely perceived as such..."

Nothing wrong with this. I don't think, however, you should attribute Burke's respectful, filial tone to some notion that he's cowed by fear of retaliation against himself or others. He is not, as far as I know, afraid of anyone. I respect Burke enough to assume hes saying exactly what he's called to say, in exactly the way he would say it if he were Fr. Ray at the Parish of St. Mary of the Back-of-the-Woods.

His criticisms are exact and objective, he's careful not top give scandal, he does not impute evil motive to the Pope, and he is not conniving in terms preserving "position" for himself or others. He's just one who understands the respect that any man deserves even in the midst of conflict,and the special veneration owed to the Successor of Peter.

And like Paul, I believe he would confront Peter "to his face".