US Archbishop Installed Without Papal Bull – Francis Couldn't Sign
The Apostolic Nuncio to the United States, Cardinal Christophe Pierre, simply wrote his own decree.
The appointment was announced by the Vatican on February 11. Shortly thereafter, Francis was admitted to the hospital.
The papal bull of appointment is normally required for a bishop to take possession of his new diocese.
The nuncio said: "I'm sorry, because normally I should have shown you the bulla, that is normally signed by the Holy Father. Unfortunately, as you know, because of his sickness, the Holy Father was unable to sign it."
Cardinal Pierre added that he had prepared a decree of his own. "Don’t worry, it is all legal. I can see that some canon lawyers are already worried — I don’t know why."
It is expected that the papal bull will arrive later.
The step is unusual, but possible. No one doubts the appointment of Archbishop Weisenburger.
Picture: Edward Weisenburger, #newsZbtvdrvxpx