The Pope appoints 21 new cardinals, expanding the group eligible to choose the next pope

Pope Francis, the first Latin American pope in history, announced the appointment of 21 new cardinals on Sunday. This decision significantly expands the College of Cardinals and solidifies the pontiff’s influence on the group of high-ranking church officials who will one day gather to choose his successor.

Among the newly appointed cardinals are leaders of major dioceses and archdioceses in South America. These include prominent figures from regions such as Santiago del Estero in Argentina, Porto Alegre in Brazil, Santiago in Chile, Guayaquil in Ecuador, and Lima in Peru.

The new cardinals will be formally appointed and presented with their red hats during a ceremony known as a consistory on December 8. This date holds significant importance as it marks the beginning of the Christmas season in Rome and is a momentous occasion within the Catholic Church.

This move by Pope Francis is part of his ongoing efforts to shape the future of the church hierarchy and ensure a diverse representation of perspectives within the College of Cardinals. With this latest appointment, the pontiff continues to make his mark on the leadership structure of the Catholic Church.

The selection of new cardinals is a crucial step in maintaining the stability and continuity of leadership within the church, as these individuals will play a key role in the future direction of the Vatican and the selection of the next pope. Pope Francis’ choices reflect his commitment to inclusivity and global representation within the highest echelons of the Catholic Church.