[Mrs. Don-o]

Wuerl had his title changed but none of his powers removed-- including, even, voting in the next conclave, if it happens in the next 3 years.

Pope Francis heaped effusive praise on Wuerl even as he was depriving him of his t5itle. I see it as a cynical, almost mocking move: literally nominal.

I hope you two are right about Wuerl being decisively weakened by this move. Time will tell.

[sitetest]

When the tyrant looks like he will live forever (or at least an interminably long time), his powers may be invincible. When the tyrant’s time grows short, his subjects may decide it is possible to wait him out.

As well, the perverse example of the pervert mccarrick perversely shows that punishments incurred in the short-run may be reversed upon regime change. If change is imminent, minions may disobey, or at least tarry in the execution of their duties in anticipation of the new tyrant, if for no other reason than to refrain to commit actions that may prospectively offend the new regime.