Beantown Gets Its Bishops

When queried as to the status of his quest for new auxiliary bishops, Cardinal Sean O'Malley was feeling relaxed enough at a recent event to whimsically reply, "How long, O Lord, how long?"

Congratulations, Friar: Boston, the wait is over.

As those of you adept at reading between the lines knew to expect, the Pope has named Fathers John A. Dooher, 63, and Robert F. Henessey, 54, as auxiliary bishops of Boston. The announcement comes but twelve days after O'Malley reemphasized his request in a meeting with the new Secretary of State. Word from Brighton earlier in the week tipped the ordination date as December 8, the solemnity of the Immaculate Conception.

Two days after the diocese of Davenport declared bankruptcy in the face of abuse damages, Benedict XVI also accepted the resignation of Bishop William Franklin, naming Auxiliary Bishop Martin Amos of Cleveland as his successor.

Bishop Franklin is almost 18 months past his 75th birthday, Bishop Amos turns 65 in December.

SVILUPPO: As further proof that it pays to be a blogging cardinal, the SeanBlog has posted the official announcement. Correx: the double ordination in Boston will take place on December 12th.

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