In a significant move to shape the future of the Catholic Church, Pope Francis revealed on Sunday his decision to elevate 21 churchmen to the esteemed rank of cardinal.
This marks another defining moment in his papacy, as these individuals will eventually play a crucial role in selecting his successor upon his death or resignation.
Pope Francis Appointing 21 New Cardinals
The ceremony, known as a consistory, is scheduled to take place on September 30, as announced by the 86-year-old pontiff during his noon prayer in St. Peter’s Square.
This forthcoming consistory will be the ninth of its kind called by Pope Francis since his historic election as the first Latin American pope a decade ago.
The newly appointed cardinals hail from various countries, including the United States, Italy, Argentina, Switzerland, South Africa, Spain, Colombia, South Sudan, Hong Kong, Poland, Malaysia, Tanzania, and Portugal.
Notably, 18 out of the 21 cardinals are under the age of 80, making them eligible to participate in future secret conclaves responsible for electing the next pope.
These cardinal electors will have a considerable influence on the selection process.
With the addition of these new cardinals, the number of cardinal electors will rise to 137, with approximately 73 percent of them chosen by Pope Francis.
This notable majority increases the likelihood that the next pontiff will share the current pope’s vision for a more progressive and inclusive Church. Additionally, Pope Francis has sought to foster diversity in the College of Cardinals, particularly by appointing cardinal electors from Asia and Africa.
In contrast to his predecessor, he has reduced the emphasis on European countries, thereby raising the prospects of an Asian or African pope in the future.
The number of cardinals appointed by Pope Francis may continue to grow, contingent upon the length of his tenure.
The pontiff recently underwent surgery for an abdominal hernia and spent nine days in the hospital.
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Shaping the College of Cardinals for a Progressive Church
However, his recovery is progressing well, and he has planned visits to Portugal and Mongolia in the coming months.
While three of the newly appointed cardinals are 80 years or older, rendering them ineligible to vote in conclaves, their appointments serve as expressions of gratitude for their longstanding service to the Church.
Regardless of their voting eligibility, all cardinals, including those above the age of 80, participate in pre-conclave meetings called General Congregations.
These gatherings enable them to contribute to discussions and influence the younger cardinals’ perception of the qualities they should seek in the next pope.
As Pope Francis continues to shape the College of Cardinals, his choices not only influence the future direction of the Catholic Church but also carry implications for the global religious landscape.
With his emphasis on inclusivity, progressiveness, and geographic diversity, the next pope is more likely to align with his transformative vision for the Church.
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