Had Francis been elected just a few years earlier, it is likely that “Liturgiam Authenticam” would have died in committee.

Some bishops' conferences are unhappy with the translation of the Roman Missal required by "Liturgiam Authenticam."

Communities need to be saved from "corruption, extortion, the illegal trafficking of drugs and weapons," he said.

Though clearly a commercial venture, Lust nonetheless makes sad reading and raises some questions.

Pope Francis puts his credibility on the line not only in the foreign policy field, but also in the pastoral field, outgoing U.S. Vatican Ambassador Ken Hackett says.

The remarkable showdown is the latest example Pope Francis clashing with more conservative elements in the Catholic Church.