14 Comments
User's avatar
Thinkling's avatar

A lot of intrigue to unpack in this one article. Much is rehashing of things previously reported, but now all put in one place.

However, the headline's claim is a new point. While perhaps not terribly important (a random opinion of someone who has proven not trustworthy and of possessing bad judgment), I find the claim quite profound.

I had the minor epiphany several years ago that much, if not most, of what is confusing about the Francis pontificate could be made much more coherent if one accepts a single working assumption. This is that Francis sees himself [mainly] as the Vatican City Head of State, and not as the occupant of the Chair of Peter.

Every friend of mine who knew enough to pass judgment on this possibility easily agreed. I don't know the pope's actual take on the matter, but this idea puts an interesting light on the Cardinal's take, if he were also to agree.

Expand full comment
Josh D's avatar

I think Andrea Gagliarducci has proposed similar ideas.

Expand full comment
Thinkling's avatar

Thanks! I missed that, though am not surprised, as he is very perceptive (and better informed than me) that way.

Expand full comment
Joe Witkowski's avatar

At what point does Becciu just gasp and die like Ananias and Sapphira in Acts 5?

Expand full comment
William's avatar

So with all that money going to Australia, is there any possible link between that money and the money Saunders was using to pay off his victims?

Expand full comment
KP's avatar
Nov 2Edited

Very unlikely. Broome is very, very remote. Saunders has his own network of more local support. He wasn’t much of Roman butterfly.

Expand full comment
Aaron Babbidge's avatar

The story that just keeps on giving. I can't wait until we find out the Arlington Carmelites are somehow connected to Becciu.

Expand full comment
Garth, OPL's avatar

I don't think Cardinal Becciu should be on anyone's list for reliable advice regarding governance. Except maybe as an example of what NOT to do.

Expand full comment
Nicole's avatar

He is just staggering in his audacity.

Expand full comment
Matthew K Michels, OblSB's avatar

"Ya know the thing about this uhhh Becciu fella - the more I learn about him, the less i like him"

Expand full comment
Sqplr's avatar

Way to live up to all the worst Vatican conspiracy stereotypes.

Expand full comment
Bisbee's avatar

His Eminence just keeps digging himself in a deeper hole. Poor man.

Expand full comment
KP's avatar

Which kind of doctor removes heads from their own arses?

Expand full comment
Mark Steo's avatar

I am still wondering why he hasn’t excommunicated himself already. Is he walking the fine line or are his words telling as to why we need to be more merciful. Reading his words is making my eyes bleed sorrow for all those who get sucked into lying, pompous, and prideful person seeking power. We should pray for all of them.

Expand full comment