Disgraced Cardinal Mahony to help pick next pope

Cardinal Mahony of the Los Angeles Archdiocese is back at work, just a week after being relieved of all public duties for his role in the child-abuse sex scandal. Archbishop Gomez relieved him after it was revealed that he personally tried to cover up the allegations of abuse and shielded offending priests.

LOS ANGELES, CA (Catholic Online) - Yesterday, Cardinal Mahony posted on his blog, a full two hours before the Archbishop posted a statement on his site, saying that he intends to participate in the election of the next pope.

Mahony praised Benedict, calling him "extraordinary" and saying that he looks forward to traveling to Rome. He posted, "I look forward to traveling to Rome soon to help thank Pope Benedict XVI for his gifted service to the Church, and to participate in the Conclave to elect his successor."

Mahony was soundly denounced by Archbishop Gomez saying "Effective immediately, I have informed Cardinal Mahony that he will no longer have any administrative or public duties."

However, it was clarified shortly afterwards that Mahony remained "in good standing" and that his powers as a cardinal remained.

In fact, Mahony may have no choice in the affair, as all Cardinals, under the age of 80, are actually required to vote.

For now, it appears the Cardinal will be going to Rome in a couple weeks and will join another 10 cardinals from the U.S. He should vote carefully. Whoever is the next pope is, he will be responsible for dealing with Mahony and those who have perpetrated and facilitated evil and abuse throughout the Church.

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