What I found most interesting in both reports was the connection between the lines of the historically "sovereign nature" of the relationship between the Knights of Malta and the Vatican...how Pope Francis has moved to change that relationship under his vision of the Roman Catholic Church as a papal monarchy over subjects whose obedience is required regardless of prior historical arrangements between religious orders and the Vatican.

There was a time not so long ago when religious orders sought papal recognition as protection from bishops and others who wanted rule over those orders in their respective dioceses and parishes.  Now, one can see that this protection is in jeopardy for ALL religious communities, including monastic orders like the Benedictines, in light of good Pope Francis' vision of papal authority. This change sets a precedent for future popes seeking sole autonomy.

It is ironic that a traditionalist lay order should be the case to bring this point into the light.