Look at Sandro Magister, never afraid to dish it out for people whom he loves, like Archbishop Piero Marini. Nor do his words seem afire with love for the Pope from Poland.

The person responsible for Bartolucci’s removal in 1997 was the master of pontifical ceremonies, Piero Marini, still in service with Benedict XVI although close to his own dismissal. Marini brought in monsignor Giuseppe Liberto as head of the Sistine Chapel, having noticed and appreciated his work as music director during John Paul II’s visits to Sicily. It was easy to get pope Karol Wojtyla’s permission for the maneuver.

I thought Marini was close to his own dismissal back when Ratzinger was elevated to the supreme pontificate. I understand the Secretary of State, but how hard can it be to give the liturgical director the boot? Anyway, it’s encouraging to think to that Magister is willing to put in writing that Marini is “close to his own dismissal.” Also, I’m pleased to see, owing to my schismatic tendencies, as Iacobus will surely be quick to point out, that Magister is so quick in his criticism of this clearly misguided decision from the former pontificate.