The last thing Bolivian bishop Toribio Ticona Porco could have imagined is that the pope would make him a cardinal. That's not even because he is 81 years old and was retired.
MSGR. TORIBIO TICONA PORCO
Prelate Emeritus of Corocoro
'I come from a unique poverty... I sold newspapers, was a shoeshiner, a bricklayer's assistant, a mechanic, a miner, and also a municipal mayor. I was auxiliary bishop, prelate of Corocoro, and now - God willing -, cardinal of Bolivia.'
The episcopal conference wanted to accompany him to Rome for this important day on behalf of all the Catholics in the country.
MSGR. TORIBIO TICONA PORCO
Prelate Emeritus of Corocoro
'It is a true joy to share this joy with the president and vice-president of the episcopal conference. I'm very happy with how it unites us. I want my conference in Bolivia and my work to be one of unity and common union.”
MSGR. RICARDO CENTELLAS
President, Bolivian Episcopal Conference
'It is a unique experience to be with our brother Toribio during this important event for our Church in Bolivia. For the Church in Bolivia it is a joy to have a cardinal.'
MSGR. OSCAR APARICIO
Vice President, Bolivian Episcopal Conference
'I'm happy for this nice gift by the pope to give us a bishop, also in this course of great work in the Aymara and Quechua communities. It is a gift for Bolivia and for these people.'
As proof that he has not forgotten those communities with which he has worked, he sends a message in Quechua.
MSGR. TORIBIO TICONA PORCO
Prelate Emeritus of Corocoro
'Dear brothers of Bolivia, I am here. I am coming back to work with you, and I want you to help me to fulfill my mission as a cardinal.'
A few hours before receiving the red cardinal cassock, Cardinal Toribio has not lost his good humor. He sends this message to Bolivia.
MSGR. TORIBIO TICONA PORCO
Prelate Emeritus of Corocoro
'Friends and brothers and sisters from Bolivia, it is a great joy to meet in the holy city of Rome, where the martyrs Peter and Paul gave their lives for the faith. I would like to follow their example, but I'm not praying for it to be soon.'
Of course, from now on he will wear red in the great ceremonies to remember that he is willing to give his blood for the pope.
