1.   In the American hierarchy of values it is not brilliance or strength or even success that crowns the structure, but goodness.

2.   Known as a moderate both in his views and in his manner of expressing them, he was usually aligned with the liberal wing of the American hierarchy.

3.   Organizers of the US referendum drive said they decided to launch the effort because they believe the American church hierarchy is outofstep with the views of many rank-and-file Catholics.

4.   The pontiff has reshaped the American church hierarchy as perhaps none of his predecessors has.

5.   Unlike some others in the American hierarchy in Vietnam, he was not a self-promoter.

6.   The American hierarchy of the Roman Catholic Church has urged an end to the death penalty for a quarter century.

7.   The meeting is expected to give the cardinals directions for a June meeting of the full American church hierarchy in Dallas.