The upcoming papal conclave will see significant participation from American Cardinals, many of whom have been ordained under Pope Francis and advocate for contemporary social issues.
U.S. Cardinals Prepare for Historic Papal Conclave
U.S. Cardinals Prepare for Historic Papal Conclave
Ten of the Cardinal Electors from the U.S. are set to vote for the next pope, with several newly appointed by Pope Francis.
The College of Cardinals currently includes 17 members from the United States, but only 10 are cardinal electors authorized to vote in the upcoming conclave to choose the next pope. The remaining seven members are over the age of 80, thereby ineligible to participate. Among the ten electors, six were appointed by Pope Francis, known for their advocacy on critical matters such as immigration, environmental issues, and poverty.
Leading this roster is Cardinal Blase J. Cupich, 76, of Chicago, who has been vocal in supporting immigrant communities and addressing social justice within the church. Cardinal Robert W. McElroy, 71, of Washington, has also made headlines for his outspoken positions on issues affecting migrants and marginalized groups, opposing harsh immigration policies.
Cardinal Joseph W. Tobin, 73, of Newark and Cardinal Wilton D. Gregory, 77, the archbishop emeritus of Washington and the first African-American cardinal, have both been proponents of inclusion within the church, with Gregory having previously pushed for a strong policy against sexual abuse.
Cardinal Kevin J. Farrell, 77, oversees the Dicastery for the Laity, Family and Life, and is notable for his role as chamberlain of the Vatican. Lastly, Cardinal Robert F. Prevost, 69, serves as the prefect of the Dicastery for Bishops and stands as a possible contender for the papacy despite the odds indicating the United States has yet to see a pope from its ranks.
This upcoming conclave is particularly significant, as it draws in a diverse body of church leaders all aiming to shape the future course of the Catholic Church amidst pressing global challenges.
Leading this roster is Cardinal Blase J. Cupich, 76, of Chicago, who has been vocal in supporting immigrant communities and addressing social justice within the church. Cardinal Robert W. McElroy, 71, of Washington, has also made headlines for his outspoken positions on issues affecting migrants and marginalized groups, opposing harsh immigration policies.
Cardinal Joseph W. Tobin, 73, of Newark and Cardinal Wilton D. Gregory, 77, the archbishop emeritus of Washington and the first African-American cardinal, have both been proponents of inclusion within the church, with Gregory having previously pushed for a strong policy against sexual abuse.
Cardinal Kevin J. Farrell, 77, oversees the Dicastery for the Laity, Family and Life, and is notable for his role as chamberlain of the Vatican. Lastly, Cardinal Robert F. Prevost, 69, serves as the prefect of the Dicastery for Bishops and stands as a possible contender for the papacy despite the odds indicating the United States has yet to see a pope from its ranks.
This upcoming conclave is particularly significant, as it draws in a diverse body of church leaders all aiming to shape the future course of the Catholic Church amidst pressing global challenges.
