….highlights the global reach of the Church, which steadfastly proclaims God’s merciful love to people worldwide.
By Olotu Boiy
On Sunday, Pope Francis announced his intention to designate 21 new cardinals from various parts of the world by the end of September.
During his weekly Sunday Angelus prayer from the window of the Apostolic Palace on Saint Peter’s Square, the pope emphasized that the origin of the newly appointed cardinals highlights the global reach of the Church, which steadfastly proclaims God’s merciful love to people worldwide.
This upcoming consistory will mark the ninth occasion under Pope Francis where cardinals are being appointed. As he enters his tenth year as pope, his selection of cardinals holds significant importance, as those under the age of 80 will participate in the future election to choose Francis’ successor.
The individuals announced by Pope Francis on Sunday include clergy members from regions where Christianity is experiencing growth, such as Latin America, Africa, and Asia. Notable among the new cardinals are the archbishops of Juba, South Sudan, Bogota, Colombia, as well as bishops from Penang, Malaysia, and Hong Kong.
Additionally, the list encompasses the inclusion of Claudio Gugerotti, an Italian bishop who currently serves as the prefect for the Dicastery of the Eastern Churches.
AFP
