Pope Francis led a ceremony at St. Peter’s Basilica on Saturday to elevate 13 new cardinals, in a significant event for the Catholic Church. The consistory, as the ceremony is known, took place despite a visible bruise on the Pope’s chin, which sparked curiosity among onlookers.
The 13 new cardinals, who come from around the world, were formally welcomed into the College of Cardinals during the ceremony. The College of Cardinals is the body of senior bishops who advise the Pope and are eligible to elect his successor.
As the Pope entered St. Peter’s Basilica, his injury was immediately noticeable. A large bruise was visible on his chin, which appeared to be several days old. However, the cause of the injury was not immediately disclosed.
Despite the visible bruise, the Pope appeared to be in good spirits and delivered his homily as scheduled. He reflected on the role of the cardinals in the Church and the importance of their service to the faithful.
The 13 new cardinals come from diverse backgrounds and countries, including Africa, Asia, Europe, and the Americas. They include bishops from major dioceses, as well as officials who have served in key roles within the Vatican.
The ceremony began with the procession of the cardinals, followed by the Pope’s homily. The new cardinals then took an oath of loyalty to the Pope and the Church, before receiving their red birettas and rings.
The consistory is a significant event in the life of the Church, as it brings together senior bishops from around the world to advise the Pope and elect his successor. The College of Cardinals currently has 228 members, although only cardinals under the age of 80 are eligible to vote in a papal election.
The Pope’s injury did not appear to hinder his ability to participate in the ceremony, although some observers noted that he seemed to be in some discomfort at times. The Vatican did not provide any information on the cause of the injury, although speculation among onlookers included possibilities such as a fall or an accident.
The ceremony was attended by senior officials from the Vatican, as well as dignitaries from around the world. The event was also broadcast live on television and streamed online, allowing Catholics around the world to follow the proceedings.
The new cardinals will play an important role in advising the Pope and shaping the future of the Church. They will also be eligible to participate in a papal election, should the need arise.
As the ceremony drew to a close, the Pope reflected on the importance of the cardinals’ role in the Church. He urged them to serve the faithful with humility and compassion, and to work tirelessly for the good of the Church.
The new cardinals then departed St. Peter’s Basilica, marking the beginning of their new role within the College of Cardinals. The Pope, meanwhile, returned to his residence, where he will continue to recover from his injury.
