While protest turnout (12/8) failed to meet expectations, archdiocesan spokesman Donna Morrissey confirmed that the Cardinal was at the Vatican. Speculation proceeds as to whether he’s asking permission to declare bankruptcy (and simplify the awarding of damages to abuse victims) or to step down.
Globe:
Yesterday, a group of Boston priests began circulating a draft letter calling on Law to resign. In the letter, a copy of which was obtained by the Globe, the priests would praise Law for his many positive contributions to Boston, but say ”the events of recent months and, in particular, of these last few days, make it clear to us that your position as our bishop is so compromised that it is no longer possible for you to exercise the spiritual leadership required for the church of Boston.” A priest who is helping to circulate the letter said that the group hopes to gather 50 signatures before delivering the letter to Law. Some priests are reluctant to support the letter either because of fear or because they believe it is inappropriate.
Reuters:
While several priests have individually urged Law to step down, no group of clerics had yet done so. Stephen Pope, chair of the Theology Department at Boston College, a Jesuit university, has said that any collective call by priests for Law to resign would signal “open revolt” in the archdiocese.