Pope Francis on Saturday inducted new Roman Catholic cardinals to the group that will choose his successor, telling them their high rank was a call to be humble and work for justice.
The Pope elevated 20 prelates, many of them from developing countries, at a ceremony in St. Peter’s Basilica. It was attended by former Pope Benedict XVI, making only his fifth public appearance at a church event since his resignation in 2013.
In his homily, Pope Francis said being a cardinal “is not a kind of accessory, a decoration, like an honorary title”. He warned against being “puffed up with pride”, adding: “Nor are church dignitaries immune from this temptation.”
Cardinals are the Pope’s highest ranking aides in Rome and around the world. Those under 80 can enter a secret conclave to elect the next pontiff after Pope Francis’s death or resignation.
Since his election, Pope Francis has often criticised careerism and privileges among the clergy.
Fifteen of those who received their red “biretta” hats on Saturday are under 80, bringing the total number of “cardinal electors” to 125. The five older men were honoured for their long service to the church. Nine are from the developing world. It is the first time cardinals from Myanmar, Tonga or Cape Verde have been appointed.
