On the first of September, the Angelus was full of unexpected surprises. The first is that Pope Francis will appoint 13 new cardinals next month. Ten are able to vote in an eventual conclave.
They have experience working with refugees, promoting interfaith dialogue and come from majority-Muslim countries such as Morocco and Indonesia, as well as Spanish-speaking Guatemala and Cuba.
POPE FRANCIS
On October 5, I will hold a Consistory for the appointment of 10 new cardinals. Their origins express the missionary vocation of the Church, which continues to proclaim the merciful love of God to all the people of the earth.
This week's Angelus got off to a later start than normal, after Pope Francis explained to concerned crowds that he had gotten stuck in an elevator just beforehand.
POPE FRANCIS
First of all, I have to apologize for the delay, but there was a problem: I was locked in the elevator for 25 minutes! There was a drop in voltage and the elevator stopped. Thank God the Fire Department came - I thank them so much!
He also mentioned his upcoming trip to Africa, for which he will depart this week.
POPE FRANCIS
Next Wednesday, God-willing, I will depart for an apostolic journey to Africa to visit the populations of Mozambique, Madagascar and Mauritius. I ask you to accompany me with your prayers, so that this pastoral visit may bear the desired fruits.
The pope concluded remembering the World Day of Prayer for the Care of Creation. He recalled the Season of Creation continues until Oct. 4, the feast of St. Francis of Assisi.
Melissa Butz
