The creation of new cardinals is a day of celebration. That is why it is normal that, at the end of the liturgical ceremony, a great enthusiasm is felt.
The new cardinals went to the Paul VI Audience Hall and to the Apostolic Palace. There people from every country and class came to greet them...
...even heads of state like the Grand Duke of Luxembourg.
“First of all, it's a great honor for Luxembourg and it's a great honor for our archbishop, who becomes cardinal today.”
The excitement was palpable among the new cardinals. Some came from remote regions, where it was unusual to have cardinals among the bishops of the country.
CARD. SIGITAS TAMKEVIČIUS
Bishop emeritus of Kaunas (Lithuania)
“This is very important because for 50 years Lithuania went through a sort of 'Way of The Cross,' suffering through the Soviet occupation.”
“What does it mean for your country?”
CARD. IGNATIUS SUHARYO
Archbishop of Yakarta (Indonesia)
“Recognition.”
“It would be too long to tell you, but also the recognition of what we have been doing in Indonesia; that is mostly trying to live in harmony among different religious communities.”
The pope also made new “Curia” cardinals, cardinals who work in the Vatican, where the task they have at hand is very demanding.
CARD. MIGUEL ÁNGEL AYUSO GUIXOT
President, Pontifical Council for Interreligious Dialogue
“I think with the celebration of this consistory it has become clear again that interreligious dialogue is a priority.”
CARD. MICHAEL CZERNY
Migrants and Refugees Section
“I think the Holy Father intensifies and expands our concern. To help him carry the weight.”
Now the total number of cardinals is 225 and 127 are electors. Of them, 52 percent have been created by Pope Francis, 33 percent by Benedict XVI and 14 percent by John Paul II.
Javier Romero
Translated: Carina Anderson
