The petition seems cynical. The petitioners know:
- The State, having determined that Shanley does not satisfy the criteria for civil commitment, has no legal authority to file against him now.
- The Archdiocese of Boston, having imposed the penalty of laicization on Shanley, no longer has any authority over him. Laicization is not intended to protect families or communities; it is not even intended to penalize errant priests. Laicization is intended to protect bishops by severing the relationship between them and men whom they once described as "sons." 
Sean O'Malley will not lift a finger or spend a dime to help Shanley. The policy of the bishops is to discard accused priests by laicizing them. No one should think that the community is safer as a result of that policy. It isn't.
What Shanley needs is what we all need: safe, secure housing; adequate healthcare; appropriate professional services; and friendship. That's what builds a safer community. Shame on O'Malley for turning away.