Cardinal Keeler said condemnations between Catholics and Lutherans in the 16th century were based partly on stereotypes of each other.

"We are committed to vigilance, with your assistance," Cardinal Keeler said in a five-minute address.

Some Vatican officials were also deeply upset with Cardinal Keeler's action.

"But the weakest members of our society should not bear the greatest burdens" in this effort, Cardinal Keeler said today.

Mr. Tildon credited Cardinal Keeler for fighting to keep city schools open in the face of recommendations, based on finances, that they be closed.

"The Catholics moved out, but we're serving whole neighborhoods now," Cardinal Keeler said in an interview.

Cardinal Keeler said his meeting with the diocese's priests focused on ideas to better protect children and strengthen the clergy.

Cardinal Keeler reached age 80 on March 4, 2011, and lost the eligibility to participate in any future papal conclaves.

Cardinal Keeler urged anyone with information to come forward to the archdiocese.

Cardinal Keeler, who declined to be interviewed, quietly tried to convince his brother bishops of the advantages of disclosure, several church officials said.