Bishops cannot ignore Canon Law for pastoral reasons

Bishops cannot ignore Canon Law by citing "prudential judgment for pastoral reasons" because the canons were written for pastoral reasons. The laws were meant to ensure a consistency in Church discipline by forcing a timid bishop to take action and an overly excited bishop to temper his. The bishops in Texas, New York, DC & Massachusetts must deal with Catholic politicians who endorse abortion is the very same way - by the book. Liberal bishops who ignore unpopular actions are remiss in fulfilling their duties to the community.