PFL
I read the referring article and found it wide-ranging and unfocused.
While I agree fully that the Homily must be given, and not have 2 non-believers give it, the author’s attempt to tie it into Holy Thursday and the Abbas/Perez/Bartholew I prayers fail.
The USCCB, in February of 1987, said it was OK to wash the feet of men and women. Here is an excerpt of the relavent statement: In this regard, it has become customary in many places to invite both men and women to be participants in this rite in recognition of the service that should be given by all the faithful to the Church and to the world. Thus, in the United States, a variation in the rite developed in which not only charity is signified but also humble service. (http://www.usccb.org/prayer-and-worship/liturgical-year/triduum/holy-thursday-mandatum.cfm)
Regarding the prayers said in June, I think this quote makes the most sense “We do not pray together, but we stay together to pray,” which indicates it wasn’t a liturgical event. Rather, it was a time when individuals could ask God for peace, in their own voice.
The article, in my opinion was critical and conspiratorial with the “coming from the highest office...” statement.