The Fr. Pavone business has been long coming? And a lost cause for him, even if the bishop was inexact in his announcement?
Especially in light of [presumed] behind-the-scenes negotiations, and the consultations that must have taken place, it is unfortunate that [Amarillo’s] Bishop Zurek sloppily used the word suspend in the public announcement of his decision. Father Pavone was not suspended; he remains a priest in good standing. He was summoned to serve the Church in the diocese where he is incardinated. There is no question that the bishop has the authority to restrict a priests ministry in this way. Although Father Pavone has announced a canonical appeal, it is difficult to imagine how he could prevail.
Yes indeed on the “suspend” matter, which naturally became the lede for the Amarillo newspaper story. Unfortunately.
There’s much more, from Phil Lawler.
Blithe Spirit 