Tuesday 25 September 2012

Cardinal Archbishop of Sydney to decide episcopal appointments

Nestled away in the "Other Pontifical acts" section of the Vatican Information Service on Saturday (22 September 2012) was this piece of information of interest to Antipodeans and the wider Catholic Church:
"The Holy Father appointed: ...
Cardinal George Pell, Archbishop of Sydney, Australia, as a member of the Congregation for Bishops."

This means that Cardinal Pell will be asked to opine on the suitability of episcopal candidates. Together with with those of the other members of the Congregation, his Eminence's views as to the best candidate for a particular diocese shall be conveyed to the Pope, with the Holy father usually accepting the majority recommendation.

Several Australian sees remain vacant.

Cardinal Pell ordains eight men earlier this year



The Pope and the Cardinal converse during WYD 2008

The Pope is accompanied by the Cardinal Archbishop of Sydney and the (now) Bishop of Parramatta

Cardinal Pell in the foreground, and his Cathedral in Sydney

Celebrating the Chrism Mass 2012