This was not unexpected, of course. Cardinal William Keeler of Baltimore submitted his letter of resignation to the Pope upon turning 75 as required by canon law. As usual there’s no way of knowing when the resignation will actually be accepted. He joins Cardinals Adam Maida of Detroit and Theodore McCarrick of DC as cardinals serving past 75. Six other diocesan bishops are also serving past 75 and there are five empty sees.
Bishop Joseph Imesch of Joliet, Illinois, turns 75 in June, which we can all hope means his resignation will be accepted speedily. In addition to Imesch, six more diocesan bishops will turn 75 this year, including Archbishops Thomas Kelly of Louisville and Oscar Lipscomb of Mobile. Bishop Charles Grahmann of Dallas will turn 75 in July. Another opportunity to add by subtraction, so to speak.
His health isn’t good? The Baltimore Sun writes, “Keeler, who turned 75 last month, said this week that he did not express a preference in his letter to the pope. He said he has no health problems that would prevent him from working.”
I have to agree with mio about the “re-opening” of the first episcopal see in this country. Baltimore remains the primary see in this nation due to historical importance rather than current trends.
Interestingly as a question – which see “should” be considered of primary eminence in our nation given the current Catholic population distribution and prestige levels? I’m partial to Philadelphia (since I live here and am applying to the seminary here); however, I would have to say that DC as the national capital and/or New York have primacy over Philadelphia. Any arguments for other sees of current Cardinals?
Based on the numbers … sounds like Pope Benedict can have a huge on the American episcopacy … very quickly (i.e. within 4 years.)
When you analyze who ran for the USCCB presidency and how close it was .. you can see what is going on here. The same goes for the Bishop in charge of the all-important Liturgy committee .. that was a vicious, knock-down, drag out fight and a close one at that.
Do not underestimate how much Cdl Mahoney, Bp. Tod Brown, Cdl Egan and their ilk dread Bishop Lori, Doran, Cdl Rigali, Bp Bruskiewicz and others.
however, I would have to say that DC as the national capital and/or New York have primacy over Philadelphia. Any arguments for other sees of current Cardinals?
John Paul called New York “The capital of the world”, for what it’s worth.
Your comment reminds me of something a German immigrant colleague of mine said once, “When I left Germany to come to the United States, the I.Q. of both countries rose.”
May his resignation be accepted.
Amen, alright, and about time. All of them need to be in a retirement home making potholders.