Pope Francis raised fourteen prelates to the College of Cardinals on June 28, at an evening consistory during which he cautioned against “the quest for honours, jealousy, envy, intrigue, accommodation, and compromise.”
In his remarks to the new cardinals, the Holy Father reminded them of Jesus’ words, “whoever would be great among you must be your servant.” He said that all Church leaders must use their influence for the benefit of others, not “in the pursuit of our own interests and securities.”
“What does it profit us,” the Pontiff said, “to gain the whole world if we are living in a stifling atmosphere of intrigues that dry up our hearts and impede our mission?” Among the new cardinals, eleven are active in ministry, under the age of 80, and therefore eligible to vote in a papal conclave.
Three other new cardinals are retired from active ministry and over 80; they will not vote in papal elections. Their elevation to the College of Cardinals is in recognition for their service to the Church.
