On Sunday, October 6, 2024, Pope Francis announced the appointment of 21 new Cardinals from various countries worldwide. This announcement was warmly received by Catholics everywhere, as it symbolizes the Church's commitment to embracing diversity and strengthening its global presence.
Pope Francis also mentioned that the Consistory for the elevation of these new Cardinals will take place on December 8, 2024, coinciding with the Feast of the Immaculate Conception, at the Vatican.
As reported by the Vatican News, two of the 21 newly appointed Cardinals are from Southeast Asia, reflecting the region's significance for the Catholic Church. One of the individuals chosen for this honor is Mgr. Paskalis Bruno Syukur, OFM, Bishop of Bogor, Indonesia.
This appointment marks a historic moment for the Catholic Church in Indonesia and serves as recognition of his dedication to serving the faithful.
In addition to Mgr. Paskalis Bruno Syukur, Pope Francis also appointed Bishop Pablo Virgilio David from the Philippines as a new Cardinal. The Archbishop of Kalookan is known for his outspoken stance on social and justice issues in the Philippines.
These two Cardinals are expected to play an important role in global decision-making within the Church in the future.
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New Cardinals from Indonesia and the Philippines
After announcing the appointment of 21 new Cardinals, including two from Southeast Asia, it is important to get to know the two figures who will play significant roles within the Catholic Church.
Their profiles and life journeys offer deep insights into their dedication to serving both the faithful and society. Additionally, understanding the responsibilities they will take on as Cardinals provides a glimpse into their crucial roles in the global Church.
Mgr. Paskalis Bruno Syukur, OFM, Bishop of Bogor (Indonesia)
Mgr. Paskalis Bruno Syukur, OFM, was born on May 17, 1962, in Ranggu, East Nusa Tenggara, Indonesia. His Excellency joined the Order of Friars Minor (OFM) and pursued theological and philosophical studies in Indonesia and various other countries.
Mgr. Paskalis was ordained as a priest on February 2, 1991, and was appointed by Pope Francis as Bishop on November 21, 2013, later being consecrated on February 22, 2014.
Before being appointed and announced by Pope Francis as Cardinal from Indonesia, Mgr. Paskalis Bruno Syukur, OFM, served as the Secretary General of the Indonesian Bishops' Conference (KWI) and as Bishop of Bogor.
Mgr. Pablo Virgilio David, Bishop of Kalookan (Philippines)
Mgr. Pablo Virgilio David, Archbishop of Kalookan, Philippines, was born on March 2, 1959. He is known as a Church leader who actively defends the rights of the poor and oppressed. He pursued his theological education in the Philippines, which he later continued abroad.
Mgr. David has long been recognized for his courageous stance on social justice and human rights issues, especially concerning the government’s war on drugs in the Philippines.
Before being appointed and announced by Pope Francis as Cardinal from the Philippines, Mgr. Pablo Virgilio David served as President of the Catholic Bishops' Conference of the Philippines and as Bishop of Kalookan.
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What Are the Duties and Responsibilities of Cardinals?
As Cardinals, Mgr. Paskalis Bruno Syukur and Bishop Pablo Virgilio David will serve as key advisors to Pope Francis on various critical Church matters, both locally and globally. They will join important congregations in the Vatican, responsible for managing different aspects of Church life, ranging from liturgy to interfaith relations.
Additionally, they will have the special responsibility of selecting a new Pope through the Conclave, should the reigning Pope pass away or resign.
As Bishops who also serve as Cardinals, they will continue to lead their respective dioceses, overseeing the spiritual life of the faithful in their regions and reinforcing the Church’s commitment to social welfare and justice.
Through these roles, they will function not only as spiritual leaders but also as bridges between the local and universal Church.
