Lugo granted dispensation

President-elect Fernando Lugo Méndez of Paraguay has been granted an unprecedented dispensation by Pope Benedict XVI, which makes the retired bishop’s official status that of lay.  Apostolic Nuncio Orlando Antonini told reporters that Pope Benedict “recognized that [Lugo] was elected by the majority of the people to lead Paraguay for the next five years.”  While Lugo will always be a bishop on account of having received Holy Orders, he will be free from any sanctions from the Holy See for pursuing governmental office.

I think this is a very good thing for Paraguay, and I hope that Lugo will fulfill his promises and that the Lord blesses the people.  For more on Lugo and some of the misinformation spread by LifeSiteNews and Rorate Caeli, click here.