On November 14 Sandro Magister claimed that 'word is going round the Vatican' that the next Consistory will be in February next year. He speculates that if Benedict XVI adheres to previously established practice, Florence will possibly/probably yet again not make 'the purple' because it has a surviving emeritus Archbishop, who is not yet 80 - Cardinal Enrico Antonelli (75) . From an English point of view it would yet again rule Archbishop Nichols of Westminster from the running. Cardinal Murphy-O'Connnor is not 80 until August. If on the other hand the Consistory is delayed until later in the year............
Whether or not Pope Benedict really intends to retire on his own 85th birthday, he may decide on a February Consistory as possibly his last chance to affect the composition of the College at the next conclave.
Perish the thought.
I mean of course, perish the thought that he may be considering retirement.
9 comments:
Perish the thought indeed!
Three times d'accord!
Perish the thought that VN gets a red hat any time (though I'm resigned to it happening some time). He's hardly shown loyalty to the Church's teachings on moral issues (Soho 'gay' liturgies)or Catholic Education (the Vaughan scandal) to give just a couple of examples.
Better to give it to the Bishop of Shrewsbury. At least is demonstrably a pope's man.
Tom, it's an unwritten rule with me not to say anything in open criticism of our hierarchy. Nevertheless, it would be dishonest to leave the impression that I don't agree with you about the two prelates you mention.
Jane - thanks. Fully understand. Blessings.
Jane, I know we don't know what's down the road, but would this mean that CMOC would no longer be eligible for membership of any influential committee?
Genty: I assume by 'this', that you mean CMOC's reaching his 80th birthday. As far as I know, the only position of influence from which that age would bar him, is a seat and a vote in the next Conclave.
Other than that, he will be free to 'wheel and deal' as long as he lives.
I dare not say more, but I'm sure you understand me.
Yes, Jane, that's what I meant.
It seems a big ask that aged cardinals, after a hard working life, should have to continue on the treadmill when they might welcome a bit of a rest with time for quiet contemplation.
It's a different matter for the Pope; the decision rests with God.
Genty: I don't think CMOC needs to be asked! But then I suspect heavy irony in the first part of your comment.
Apologies if that impression is ill-founded.
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