Boston Awaits Announcement Of Law's Replacement

BOSTON -- Catholics in two U.S. cities are waiting to hear about the future directions of their respective dioceses.

Video

Boston Catholics Wait For Law Replacement

In Boston, there's talk about a possible permanent replacement for Cardinal Bernard Law. And in Pittsburgh, the buzz is about Bishop Donald Wuerl, who some think may replace Law, NewsCenter 5's Kelley Tuthill reported.

"The Holy Father will announce whatever decision he makes when the time comes. But the rest is simple speculation," said Wuerl. Even if someone knew, they would not be able to say because it's the Pope who makes the announcement.

Wuerl would not confirm a Boston Globe article that suggested an announcement could come as early as Tuesday naming him as the permanent replacement for Law.

"What I know from senior Vatican officials is that there will not be an announcement about Boston tomorrow or in the next several days, " John Allen, a reporter that covers the Vatican for The National Catholic Reporter, told Tuthill. "There are two or three names under consideration. What can be said is a decision not been made."

Allen and Wuerl's own spokesman downplayed the likelihood that Wuerl is the front-runner.

"Does he have the qualifications? Absolutely he does, there's no question. Do I think he's going? No," said Pittsburg Archdiocese Spokesman Rev. Ron Lengwin.

Others being considered for the post include Archbishop Harry Flynn of Minneapolis-St. Paul, Bishop Joseph Galante of Dallas and Archbishop Edwin O'Brien of the U.S. Military Services.

Former Vatican Ambassador Ray Flynn said he expects a decision later in the month around the Feast of St. Peter and Paul.

"It's not just who can provide spiritual leadership. There's dissension among Catholics, and the media is very, very hostile and there are dissenters out there who want a a piece of the action. This is a unique situation. It would not be my first choice if the Pope asked me where I wanted to go," said Flynn.