Pope Francis Expands College of Cardinals to 142

Pope Francis has announced the appointment of 21 new cardinals, significantly expanding the College of Cardinals that will one day elect his successor. This marks the largest infusion of voting-age cardinals in Francis' tenure, increasing the number of electors from 122 to 142, although church law traditionally caps this at 120. Among the new cardinals are figures like English Dominican Fr Timothy Radcliffe, known for his progressive views, and Monsignor Angelo Acerbi, a 99-year-old retired diplomat. The appointments reflect a global reach, including representatives from Latin America, Asia, and Africa, emphasizing the universality of the Catholic Church. The consistory, where these cardinals will be formally appointed, is scheduled for December 8, aligning with a significant feast day that begins the Christmas season in Rome. This strategic move further solidifies Pope Francis' influence over the future direction of the Catholic Church.