A well-intentioned reform by Pope Francis, perhaps. But I am deeply saddened that the plot point of one of my favorite novels has been swept aside. From Vatican Insider:

Pope abolishes honorary title of monsignor for diocesan priests under the age of 65

In a new move aimed at reforming the clergy and eliminating careerism in the Catholic Church, Pope Francis has abolished the conferral of the Pontifical Honor of ‘Monsignor’ on secular priests under the age of 65.

Henceforth, the only Pontifical Honor that will be conferred on ‘secular priests’ will be that of ‘Chaplain to His Holiness’ and this will be conferred only on ‘worthy priests’ who are over 65 years of age.

Quick, let's buy up the last remaining purple socks from Gammarelli's.