Pope Francis’ action in not confirming Cardinal Muller as head of the Congregation for the Doctrine of the Faith, effectively sacking him, is, in my view, probably the most significant action he has taken since he assumed office. Muller is only 69, young by Vatican standards, and under normal circumstances he would have been confirmed in his position for another five years at least.
So, clearly, Francis, by this action, is making it clear that he does not approve of the way Muller was doing his job. Commentators have focused on Muller’s negative comments on some of Francis documents, especially Amoris Laetitia. But I think it is equally possible that Francis did not like the way Muller was exercising his position as guardian of orthodoxy.
I have made it clear for the past five years that I regard the way the CDF under Muller was dealing with people like myself was both unjust and abusive. I think it is a fair conclusion to draw that maybe Francis actually agrees with what I have been saying. The CDF under Muller didn’t believe in any form of dialogue or even direct communication, whereas Francis constantly emphasises openness to people with alternative views, and the importance of listening.
Now with Archbishop Ladaria, a Jesuit in tune with Francis, we have a new situation. The least I will expect from my Redemptorist superiors is that they approach Ladaria to re-open my case and this time to conduct it in a way that acknowledges and respects my rights as a human being and a member of the Church. If that were to happen, and I had a reasonable opportunity to present and explain my views, and if the matter was conducted openly, in public, then I would be quite content to accept whatever decision was arrived at.
