Bernard Law, the only United States cardinal to have resigned on account of attempts to cover up the clerical sexual abuse of children, has died in Rome. Law, whose ascent in the Catholic hierarchy had been as rapid as his demise, was 86 years old.

“We have anticipated this day, recognising that it would open a lot of old wounds and cause much pain and anger in those who have suffered so much already, and we share in their suffering,” said Cardinal Seán O’Malley, who succeeded Law as Archbishop of Boston, in 2003. When asked if he thought Law was going to Heaven, O’Malley replied, “I hope that everyone goes to Heaven.”