An excellent analysis of the lateral re-assignment of Archbishop Peña Parra, one of the most influential prelates in Rome. His new assignment definitely isn’t a promotion (which he didn’t deserve). But it also isn’t a punishment (although his track record, pocked with irregularities, would have merited it).

Why not a punishment? The most likely explanation is the usual one: He knows too much. Punish him outright, and he might start talking about what he knows. He might reveal who told him to rehabilitate a predator priest, or who he was protecting when the gave false testimony. The Vatican still isn’t ready for that sort of honesty.

Are you? After 20+ years of scandal, I am. Tell the truth, and let the chips fall where they may. Because they will, eventually, anyway.