There’s often a wisdom embedded in the traditions of the Vatican, even if the people charged with preserving those traditions may have forgotten, or never known in the first place, what the original logic was.
Even by the feverish standards of the Pope Francis era, the period between Sept. 30 and Oct. 7 likely will be remembered as among the most raucous and riveting weeks of his papacy.
The three-judge panel in the case, led by presiding judge Giuseppe Pignatone, has already heard closing arguments from prosecutors and civil parties, and is now hearing closing presentations from defense attorneys.
Cecilia Marogna: Vatican trial of Becciu associate continues catholicherald.co.uk - get the latest breaking news, showbiz & celebrity photos, sport news & rumours, viral videos and top stories from catholicherald.co.uk Daily Mail and Mail on Sunday newspapers.
The bottom line is that the result of the secrecy requirement will not be – indeed, can never be – the sound of silence. It will be handing the microphone to synod critics.