The topic included in the controversial footnote, the reception of communion by those in irregular marriages, was rejected by the bishops at the synods.

When that happened, the Holy Father expressed considerable displeasure, NOT directly to the bishops but to the press and others.

And so the controversial material wound up in a footnote, sort of back-dooring it in. As a result chaos is resulting.

Clearly he lacks the chops for a direct confrontation with the theological heavyweights in the episcopate - he said himself he is no theologian - but really really wishes they would see things his way.

His alternative, to simply declare a teaching sans synods, sans consistories, sans anything.

And we know what that would lead to.

Check.