11.   Besides the mandatum issue, the bishops are scheduled to vote Friday on a revised policy for Catholic hospitals and a statement on the Israeli-Palestinian crisis.

12.   Specifically, the revised policy requires DEC employees to file plans and routine reports regarding their use of motorized vehicles in the forest preserves.

13.   The bishops started their three-day session with a presentation on a revised policy for Catholic hospitals.

14.   The bishops took a first look at a revised policy that would tighten existing rules.

15.   The revised policy under debate did not include that idea.

16.   While Nicklaus was not cited as the reason for the revised policy, it appears to suit his schedule.

17.   De la Rua said Thursday he plans to remain in office, but is open to hearing proposals for a revised economic policy.