The failures detailed in the McCarrick report are not just tragic accidents but the predictable outcome of the incentives and attitudes that have shaped the hierarchy of the Catholic Church.

Vatican authorities, the U.S. bishops conference and the apostolic nuncio heard scattered allegations about misconduct by McCarrick but discounted them because their sources were considered unreliable.

“We thank God for the blessings of liberty. The American people have spoken in this election,” Archbishop Gomez said, congratulating Biden and Harris on behalf of the U.S. bishops.

Bishops who want to establish a religious order in their dioceses must first obtain the written permission of the Holy See.

The primacy of the church at the peripheries has been a key theme in Francis’ selection of cardinals. He has used the cardinalate to reach communities in countries that are experiencing poverty, conflict and political tension.

The U.S. bishops have said that "the threat of abortion remains our preeminent priority.” The statement would be more accurate and effective to say that the protection of unborn life is “foundational.”