Pope Francis presided over a consistory in Rome this Saturday morning, September 30, during which he named 21 new cardinals. These cardinals come from four different continents, highlighting the universality of the Catholic Church.
The ceremony took place on Saint-Pierre Square, under a soft autumn sun. The new cardinals received from the hands of Pope Francis the barrette, the ring and a parish in Rome which symbolizes their link with the papal see. Among these new cardinals, two French people were named: Mgr Christophe Pierre, the apostolic nuncio to the United States, and Mgr François-Xavier Bustillo, the bishop of Ajaccio.
These new cardinals also come from other countries such as South Sudan, Hong Kong and Jerusalem. The Archbishop of Juba in South Sudan, Mgr Stephen Ameyu Martin Mulla, notably welcomed the Pope during his visit to the country last February. His appointment as cardinal is a way of supporting his commitment to peace and reconciliation in a region still marked by conflicts.
The pope stressed during his speech that the Cardinal College must resemble a symphony orchestra, where each member brings their unique contribution. Diversity is essential for the Church and everyone must play their part for the common good. With these new appointments, the college of cardinals now has 242 members, of whom 138 will be voters in a future conclave.
This consistory ceremony highlights Pope Francis’ desire to make the Church a universal and diverse institution. It demonstrates its desire to encourage intercultural dialogue and promote peace in the world. The new cardinals will play a role of advisors to the pope and will participate in the election of a future successor. This appointment is also recognition of their commitment and contribution to the Catholic Church.
In conclusion, the consistory chaired by Pope Francis allowed the appointment of 21 new cardinals, from different continents, thus strengthening the universality of the Catholic Church. These cardinals will play an important role in the decisions and actions of the Church, contributing to the diversity and universality of this institution.