What a strange move on the Church's part. It reminds me of my friend's description of Methodists: "You can believe this...or not. Whatever." :)

On the surface, I would applaud any movement toward the Catholicism I was raised with: the "universal" use of the word in a "love everybody, let God sort out the details" way. However, I think you're right to view the theological/conservative issues with trepidation. I'm curious to hear how it affects your parish.