Rembert Weakland - God Have Mercy On His Soul

Today we received news that Archbishop Rembert Weakland, former prelate of the Archdiocese of Milwaukee, died early this morning.  The legacy he left is one of damage to the Faith and damage to many victims of sexual abuse.  In fact, not only did he cover up for abuse perpetrated by other priests, but he himself was guilty of vile homosexual crimes.

For all the damage that he wreaked upon the church, it appears that he did not suffer any consequence that is commensurate with his crimes on this side of the grave.  But now he is on the other side and he had to face Our Lord. 

It is the same Lord that each and every one of us will face sooner or later.  We all will be called to account for what we did and didn't do.  Some of us will be called to greater account than others, owing not only to greater responsibility but also greater gifts.  The fullness of Holy Orders is one such gift that comes with great accountability.

Let us pray that God have mercy on his soul.  Let us pray that in his final moments, that Weakland came to final repentance.  Let us also take lessons from this and be mindful of the states of our own souls at all times.