(July 5th, 2016) Cardinal Sarah (prefect at the time of the Congregation for Divine Worship) encouraged all priests to offer the New Mass (Novus Ordo) ad orientem. Pope Francis did not encourage it (by July 11th - a quick response!):
Vatican rejects Cardinal Sarah’s ad orientem appeal
catholicherald.co.uk
Bishop Taylor opines (July 13, 2016 two days after Pope Francis):
Now we jump to this year:
A rash of attacks on ad orientem in the Novus Ordo hits this year (2022) beginning in Chicago and spreads:
Chicago (Jan., 2022):
cupichs war on catholics continues a chicago pastor speaks up
wdtprs.com
Diocese of Venice (Jan., 2022):
A look at the Letter purporting to forbid “ad orientem” worship in the Diocese of Venice
wdtprs.com
Diocese of Erie (Jan., 2022):
The fever virus spreads! Another bishop attacks ‘ad orientem’ worship.
wdtprs.com
Diocese of Lexington (Feb. 2022):
A Biretta? US Dictator Bishop "Forbids" Facing The Lord
gloria.tv
Bishop Taylor had indicated his expectation since 2016 for the Mass to be facing the people. His mind and heart are most likely solidified especially in this year when so many of his brother bishops are forbidding ad orientem. Thus, we must pray and fast for his conversion! It is the only way. Our letter will not change his mind by itself.