By contrast, not only has Cardinal Hickey spoken out against him, but several nationally known black bishops have also criticized him.

Cardinal Hickey has not commented on the situation publicly.

The first day's arguments and the testimony of Cardinal Hickey quickly showed how little about the case was, in fact, clear cut.

But Cardinal Hickey also testified that for most of the university's history these mandates were not given formally but "implicitly."

When support for the group was continued in the fall, Cardinal Hickey said he would "continue actively to work for the decision's reversal."

Cardinal Hickey said the church, both in Washington and across the country, was trying to address black needs.

Last week, Cardinal Hickey said that the pastoral life center's statement "obscures" ground for church unity.

Cardinal Hickey visited the community, first holding a private meeting with the Difatos and then a public address to several hundred community members.

Father Stallings said earlier this week that he would send Cardinal Hickey a "plan of reconciliation."

A spokesman for Cardinal Hickey said the plan would be welcomed and would be carefully studied.