Bishop McElroy added, "There is no mandate in universal Catholic social teaching that gives a categorical priority to either of these issues as uniquely determinative of the common good."

ZdK president Thomas Sternberg told Germany’s Catholic News Agency (KNA): “There is criticism that disqualifies itself. It is so removed from everyday life that it cannot be taken seriously.”

"In response to the magnitude of the number of claims, lawsuits and alleged damages, the (Central Administrative Offices) has determined that a filing of a voluntary petition for reorganization under Chapter 11 of the Federal Bankruptcy Code is imminent," the diocese's 2019 financial report said.

Mychael Schilmoeller was part of a delegation of young adults who accompanied their bishops on their “ad limina” visit to Rome to meet with Pope Francis.

Archbishop Jose H. Gomez of Los Angeles said the issue of migration was among the topics discussed with the pope, who told them "how it's important for all of us in the church to be open and welcome immigrants."

He succeeds Cardinal Angelo Sodano, 92, who was dean for almost 15 years.