Austrian Priests Challenge Pope on Conservative Bishop Appointment

Sources in Rome say that the pope is not going to back down. What is interesting, and encouraging, is that Rev. Gerhard Maria Wagner was not on the list of suggested candidates, sent to Rome by Austrian bishops, to fill the post of auxiliary bishop of Linz.  Wagner is too traditional, too outspoken, concerning the immorality of our age.  Which means that he is too Catholic for the Alpine liberals. 

VIENNA (AP) — A group of Austrian priests has vehemently criticized Pope Benedict XVI’s decision to promote an ultraconservative pastor who suggested Hurricane Katrina was provoked by sin in New Orleans, the group’s head said Wednesday.

The Vatican announced Jan. 31 that the Rev. Gerhard Maria Wagner, 54, would become auxiliary bishop in Linz, the capital of Upper Austria province. The decision has sparked an outcry from Catholics who warn the unexpected pick could push people to leave the church. Full article here.