(ZENIT News / Rome, 10.22.2024).- In a rare and humbling move, Bishop Paskalis Bruno Syukur of Bogor, Indonesia, has declined the honor of being elevated to cardinal in the upcoming Consistory on December 7, 2024. The Franciscan bishop’s decision to forego this prestigious role stems from his deep desire to continue growing in his personal priesthood and to further serve the Church and the people of God. As a result, the number of new cardinals set to receive their red hats from Pope Francis has been reduced from 21 to 20.
The Vatican’s Press Office, headed by Matteo Bruni, confirmed the news in a statement: “His Excellency Paskalis Bruno Syukur, Bishop of Bogor, Indonesia, has asked the Holy Father not to be made cardinal during the upcoming Consistory. His Excellency’s request is motivated by his wish to grow further in his priestly life, in his service to the Church and the people of God.”
This decision has sparked interest and admiration within the Catholic world, not only because of its rarity but also because it reflects a profound sense of humility and dedication to spiritual growth—a testament to Bishop Syukur’s Franciscan values.
A Lifetime of Service and Leadership
Born on May 17, 1962, on the island of Flores, Bishop Syukur’s journey within the Church has been one of dedicated service. He joined the Franciscan Minor Order, making his solemn profession on January 22, 1989, and was ordained as a priest on February 2, 1991. His early priesthood was marked by service in various pastoral roles, including parish work in the remote areas of Papua, Indonesia.
Syukur’s academic pursuits took him to the Antonianum in Rome, where he earned a Licentiate in Spirituality, preparing him for leadership roles within the Franciscan Order. He returned to Indonesia to serve as a novice master and eventually took on significant responsibilities as the Provincial Minister of the Franciscans in Indonesia from 2001 to 2009. His commitment to the Order saw him elected as Definitor General for Asia and Oceania, a role that brought him back to Rome before his eventual appointment as Bishop of Bogor by Pope Francis in November 2013.
A Quiet, Thoughtful Decision
Though many view the cardinalship as the pinnacle of a bishop’s career, Bishop Syukur’s decision reflects his preference for a life of quiet reflection and spiritual growth over worldly honors. His Franciscan roots—steeped in simplicity, humility, and service—seem to have guided this choice. For Syukur, the cardinalship may have represented an honor, but it would have also carried the weight of new administrative and ceremonial duties that could take him away from his pastoral mission and the people he serves.
His decision is a reminder of a different kind of leadership—one that prioritizes spiritual development and humility over recognition. Bishop Syukur is signaling that his calling lies in a deeper relationship with God and the faithful, and in living out his Franciscan vocation in a way that places less emphasis on titles and more on the essential work of the Church.
Pope Francis’ Vision and Syukur’s Alignment
This decision aligns with the ethos of Pope Francis himself, who has consistently emphasized humility, service, and a rejection of clericalism throughout his papacy. Francis has often reminded the Church of the need for a less hierarchical, more servant-oriented clergy, which Syukur’s choice exemplifies. By accepting the bishop’s request, Pope Francis is recognizing the deep spiritual significance of this decision while continuing to champion the values of simplicity and closeness to the people that he has long advocated.
Bishop Syukur’s decision to decline the cardinalship will likely resonate with those who see the Church not as an institution of power and prestige but as a community where spiritual leaders, from the highest offices to local parishes, are called to serve first and foremost.
A Future Rooted in Service
While many in the Catholic Church may be surprised by Bishop Syukur’s decision, it is likely that his future in the Church will continue to be one of quiet yet impactful service. Whether through his leadership in the Bogor diocese or his continued contributions to the Franciscan Order, Syukur remains a figure of deep spiritual wisdom and commitment.
As the Church prepares for the December Consistory, where 20 new cardinals will be created, Bishop Paskalis Bruno Syukur will continue his journey, not with a red hat, but with the same humility and dedication that have marked his life so far—a true testament to the path of service over self.
Thank you for reading our content. If you would like to receive ZENIT’s daily e-mail news, you can subscribe for free through this link.
