Pope Francis Announces Creation of 21 New Cardinals
In a significant announcement during the Angelus on October 6, 2024, Pope Francis revealed that a consistory will be held on December 8, 2024, for the creation of 21 new cardinals. This ceremony marks the tenth consistory of his pontificate, bringing the total number of cardinal electors under 80 to 141, surpassing the required quorum of 120 for a conclave. This move reflects Pope Francis's ongoing efforts to shape the future leadership of the Catholic Church, as he has now appointed 85% of the current cardinal electors during his eleven-year tenure.
Among the new cardinals are Roberto Repole, the archbishop of Turin, and Baldassarre Reina, who has recently been appointed as the vicar general of the diocese of Rome. This diverse selection of cardinals from around the globe underscores the Pope's commitment to inclusivity within the Church's leadership.
Pope's Call for Peace and Support for Hostages
On the same day, Pope Francis also took the opportunity to express his sympathies towards Israel, particularly in light of the ongoing conflict and the upcoming anniversary of the terrorist attack on the nation. He reiterated his call for the immediate release of hostages held by Hamas in Gaza, emphasizing the Church's role in advocating for peace and humanitarian efforts in the region. This dual focus on ecclesiastical appointments and global issues highlights the Pope's broader mission of fostering unity and compassion within the Church and beyond.
