Discover the new cardinals appointed by Pope Francis during the consistory ceremony held on September 30, 2023. In total, 21 profiles from the four corners of the world were admitted to the college of cardinals, thus strengthening the image of universality desired by the Argentine sovereign pontiff.
Among these new cardinals, two French people were named: Mgr Christophe Pierre, apostolic nuncio to the United States, and Mgr François-Xavier Bustillo, bishop of Ajaccio, marking a first for the diocese of Corsica.
Diversity is also highlighted in this nomination, with representatives from different continents. Among them, the Archbishop of Juba in South Sudan, Mgr Stephen Ameyu Martin Mulla, who welcomed Pope Francis during his visit to the country last February. We also find the Archbishop of Hong Kong, Stephen Chow Sau-Yan, as well as the Latin Patriarch of Jerusalem, Pierbattista Pizzaballa, who becomes the first cardinal of Jerusalem.
During his address, Pope Francis highlighted the importance of diversity within the College of Cardinals, comparing it to a symphony orchestra where each member makes their contribution for the common good of the Church. He also recalled that diversity is necessary and indispensable in this symphony.
With these new appointments, the college of cardinals now has 242 members, including 138 voters in the event of a conclave. This decision by Pope Francis demonstrates his desire to promote a universal and open Church, where every voice counts.