I think what you are saying is important.  Francis is saying, in an indirect way, that all that sub rosa discernment is okay.  He is making it known that this is a process that does have value and can be officially recognized.

The issues of sin, forgiveness, and the state of grace of ones soul are not issues for public gossip and not subject to approval or judgment of others.  (I am not fond of those who think they have to tattle on LGBT people or bishops who promote this by worrying so much about "scandal".)  It is actually none of the business of other parishioners and bishops and priests need to make that clear.  It is an issue for an individual and a spiritual guide (always the parish priest?) to discern.

I can also see how it is hard to write a set of rules.   Maybe the problem is that the process has been based on rigid legalistic rules.   It is hard to let go of the rigidity of a legalistic process and return this to a spiritual process.