Following the Angelus on Sunday and before a square full of pilgrims, despite the high temperatures in Rome, Pope Francis delivered the following announcement:
POPE FRANCIS
Now, I would like to announce that on September 30, I will hold a Consistory for the appointment of new Cardinals. Their origins express the universality of the Church, which continues to proclaim God's merciful love to all people on earth.
In two and a half months, Pope Francis will create 21 new cardinals. 18 are able to vote in a future conclave. And three will receive the honorary cardinal's hat as they are over 80 years old.
The electors include three prefects: the Prefect of the Dicastery for Bishops, the Prefect of the Eastern Church and the Prefect for the Doctrine of the Faith, the recently appointed Archbishop Victor Manuel Fernández. The 21 men come from various parts of the world, representing the universality of the Church.
Before announcing the consistory, the Pope turned his thoughts to the Holy Land.
POPE FRANCIS
It was with sorrow that I once again learned that blood has been shed in the Holy Land. I hope that the Israeli and Palestinian authorities can resume a straightforward dialogue in order to end the spiral of violence and open paths of reconciliation and peace.
Sunday July 9 is also known as 'Sea Sunday.' The Pope thanked all those who dedicate their life to the maritime sector.
CA
TR: KG
