The Pillar Podcast Ep. 233: The end of the Leonine honeymoon
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Oct 17, 2025 JD shares amusing anecdotes from his time at SeaWorld during a canon law conference. The hosts discuss Cardinal Cupich's appointment and its implications for US bishops amid ongoing controversies. JD and Ed analyze the newly appointed Archbishop of Vienna, Josef Grünwidl, and whether his selection reflects continuity with past episcopal choices. They dive into troubling financial findings from an APSA audit, pondering the challenges ahead for Pope Leo as governance issues signal the end of his early, smooth period. The episode also features a fun segment ranking historical horses.
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Conference At SeaWorld Hotel
- JD Flynn attended the Canon Law Society conference held at a hotel connected to SeaWorld but did not visit the park.
- He shared humorous social moments, including spilling a gin and tonic and meeting Pillar readers who bought him drinks.
Cupich Appointment Is Largely Symbolic
- Cardinal Blase Cupich's appointment to the Pontifical Commission for Vatican City is not a move from Chicago or a full-time job.
- The commission role is largely advisory and similar to being a non-executive board member with occasional Rome meetings.
Appointments As Messages On Unity
- The timing of Cupich's appointment likely signals Pope Leo's reaction to recent U.S. episcopal controversies, especially over the Durban award.
- Leo values visible episcopal unity and may be using such appointments to convey his preferences on unity.
