The bishops elected as chairmen-elect are:

Archbishop Bernard A. Hebda of Saint Paul and Minneapolis, as treasurer-elect, and chairman-elect of the Committee on Budget and Finance in a 156-84 vote over Bishop David J. Malloy of Rockford.

Bishop Ronald A. Hicks of Joliet, as chairman-elect of the Committee on Clergy, Consecrated Life, and Vocations in a 146-94 over Bishop Juan Miguel Betancourt, SEMV, auxiliary bishop of Hartford.

Bishop Michael G. Woost, auxiliary bishop of Cleveland, as chairman-elect of the Committee on Divine Worship in a 128-112 over Archbishop Alexander K. Sample of Portland in Oregon.

Archbishop Shelton J. Fabre of Louisville, as chairman-elect of the Committee on Domestic Justice and Human Development in a 158-81 over Bishop Kevin J. Sweeney of Paterson.

Bishop Edward J. Burns of Dallas as chairman-elect of the Committee on Laity, Marriage, Family Life and Youth in a 147-91 over Bishop James D. Conley of Lincoln.

Bishop Brendan J. Cahill of Victoria as chairman-elect of the Committee on Migration in a 155-85 over Bishop Joseph J. Tyson of Yakima.

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Cardinal Sandoval, whose efforts have centered on ensuring the accessibility of the Latin Mass for the faithful in Mexico, received the medal in a ceremony held at his residence on October 23. His recognition highlights decades of commitment to the traditional liturgy, dating back to the Roman Missal of 1962, as promulgated by Pope John XXIII. Cardinal Sandoval has continually supported those within the Church who cherish this form of worship, fostering both reverence for its spiritual depth and unity with the broader Catholic hierarchy and Pope Francis.

Sir James MacMillan, celebrated globally for his contributions to sacred music, received his De Saventhem Medal in London on September 18. His compositions, which blend traditional and modern sacred music, have enriched liturgical and concert settings alike, resonating deeply within both religious and artistic circles. His work underscores the spiritual and cultural significance of sacred music, linking ancient traditions with contemporary expression.

Named after its founder, Dr. Eric de Saventhem, the De Saventhem Medal is reserved for those who have provided exceptional service in safeguarding the heritage of the Roman Rite. Past recipients include Cardinal Darío Castrillón Hoyos and pianist Vladimir Ashkenazy, the latter of whom signed a historic petition in 1971 in defense of the traditional Latin Mass.

Founded on the principles of communion with the Church, obedience to its Magisterium, and respect for ecclesiastical authorities, Una Voce advocates for the preservation of the Latin Mass, as well as the use of Latin, Gregorian chant, and polyphonic sacred music. These elements, rich in cultural and religious significance, are seen by the federation as essential to the spiritual life of the Church.

The organization’s stance has long found sympathetic ears within the Vatican. In 1996, Cardinal Joseph Ratzinger, then Prefect of the Congregation for the Doctrine of the Faith and later Pope Benedict XVI, commended Una Voce’s work, stating that it had been “instrumental in supporting the use of the 1962 edition of the Roman Missal in obedience to the directives of the Holy See,” and expressed his gratitude and blessing upon its members.

The recent recognition of Cardinal Sandoval and Sir James MacMillan by Una Voce, which operates in 40 countries, exemplifies the federation’s commitment to honoring individuals who have upheld the Church’s liturgical heritage with devotion. As President Dr. Joseph Shaw presented these awards, the organization reaffirmed its mission of preserving the unique beauty and spiritual depth of the traditional Mass, ensuring it remains a cherished treasure for generations to come.

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These comments ignited strong reactions from Catholic faithful across Brazil, who took to social media to share the video of the Archbishop’s remarks, decrying them as misleading and even «scandalous.» Critics highlighted that Vatican II did not, in fact, mandate Communion in the hand, nor did it discourage reception on the tongue, a practice rooted deeply in Church history and still widely accepted today.

Social Media and the Church’s Response

Following the backlash, the video was swiftly removed from the parish’s Facebook page, while the Archdiocese released a statement defending Archbishop Angonese. In the statement, local priests aligned with the Archbishop argued that his words had been taken out of context. However, social media users have continued to question the deletion, with some wondering why the video was removed if there was nothing controversial to hide. The Archdiocese also disabled comments on its Instagram post related to the incident, further fueling criticisms of censorship within the Church.

Historic Church Teachings and the Faithful’s Rights

This controversy underscores a broader issue within the Catholic Church regarding the rights of the faithful. Church documents, such as “Redemptionis Sacramentum”, emphasize that the faithful have a fundamental right to choose how they receive Communion—either on the tongue or in the hand, depending on regional customs and with appropriate pastoral guidance. Furthermore, the Congregation for Divine Worship has previously expressed concerns over any restriction that prevents a faithful Christian from receiving Communion in a preferred and legitimate manner, underscoring that such denials constitute a serious violation of their fundamental rights under Church law (CIC 213).

Balancing Tradition with Modern Catechesis

In their statement supporting the Archbishop, local priests referenced “Christus Dominus”, a Vatican II decree which highlights the episcopal duty to communicate Christian doctrine in ways suited to the times. They argued that Archbishop Angonese’s comments reflect his “catechetical and familiar approach” to reach modern audiences, though they clarified he was not asserting that Communion on the tongue is impermissible.

However, many remain skeptical, noting that statements which dismiss long-standing practices as «medieval» may undermine the respect for traditional expressions of faith. For these Catholics, such expressions are not simply relics of the past but meaningful practices that deepen their reverence for the Eucharist. 

A Growing Debate on Synodality and Authority in the Church

This incident also brings to the fore concerns over the synodal nature of the modern Church, where open dialogue is encouraged, but where some feel that certain voices are being marginalized. Critics argue that true synodality should allow space for constructive dissent, especially when Church leaders address core elements of faith and worship.

As the global Church continues to navigate the complexities of upholding tradition while addressing contemporary pastoral needs, this incident in Cascavel serves as a stark reminder of the ongoing dialogue—often contentious—between modern catechetical approaches and time-honored liturgical practices. For now, Archbishop Angonese’s comments have stirred a national conversation on the balance between tradition and adaptation, one that is likely to resonate far beyond the borders of Paraná.

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A “Street Priest” with a Heart for the Vulnerable

At 61, “Don Mimmo,” as Archbishop Battaglia is affectionately called, has become a pastoral symbol in southern Italy. With roots in the Calabria region and decades of ministry among those facing addiction and poverty, Battaglia’s path reflects Pope Francis’ vision of a Church in touch with society’s most vulnerable. As a bishop, he’s been actively involved in supporting young people, those struggling with addiction, and the economically disadvantaged. His work began in earnest during his 24-year leadership of the “Calabrian Center for Solidarity,” a therapeutic community affiliated with the Italian Federation of Therapeutic Communities, which provides resources and aid to those battling substance use disorders.

His pastoral motto, “Take courage, rise, he is calling you!” — inspired by the words of Jesus to Bartimaeus — encapsulates his dedication to lifting up those left behind. With his inclusion among the cardinals, Pope Francis continues to emphasize the values of outreach and compassion in the Church’s hierarchy.

Restoring Naples to Cardinal Significance

With Battaglia’s appointment, Naples once again becomes a cardinal see, alongside Turin. This decision aligns with Pope Francis’ approach of recognizing clerical leaders who embody the Church’s mission through personal humility and hands-on service. As the Archbishop of Naples, Battaglia has made waves with his heartfelt sermons and a message of hope, speaking out against local crime, violence, and economic hardship. Known for his direct, “brotherly” approach, he has emphasized unity with the people and clergy in Naples, a city he calls a “treasure of the South.” 

A Global Perspective in the Upcoming Consistory

This December, the College of Cardinals will reflect an even broader spectrum of voices. With 21 new cardinals, including Battaglia, the international scope is apparent: 11 are from Europe (5 from Italy), 6 from the Americas (5 from South America), 3 from Asia, and 1 from Africa. Only one of the new cardinals is a non-elector. The College will thus stand at 256 members, with 141 eligible to vote in a future papal conclave, making it one of the most diverse consistory gatherings under Pope Francis.

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The case is a clear reminder that ecclesiastical justice can and must be aligned with international standards. Since 2010, the Vatican has implemented significant legislative changes, designed to ensure that impunity has no place among those managing the Church’s assets. Stressed in the sentence is that the Vatican acknowledges fundamental principles, such as the right to a fair trial, the presumption of innocence and effective legal defense. Through counterinterrogation and an exhaustive  review of proofs, this process sought to reach an objective procedural truth, ensuring the implicated parties maximum space to defend themselves.

Crimes and Responsibilities

There are prominent figures among those sentenced, including Cardinal Giovanni Angelo Becciu, Raffaele Mincione, Enrico Crasso, Gianluigi Torzi and Cecilia Marogna. The imputations include embezzlement, fraud and extortion. In the case of Becciu and Mincione, they were found to be responsible for using  Holy See funds in a way that benefitted third parties disproportionately. In particular, Mincione used his position to access the sum of US$200 million from the Secretariat of State, funds that he invested in high risk operations, causing economic harm to the Vatican. Although there was no identification of direct personal benefit, the Court decided that this management of resources was an illicit use of ecclesiastical assets. 

Gianluigi Torzi, linked to the purchase of a luxury building in London, was found guilty of aggravated fraud and extortion. During the transaction, Torzi retained essential voting rights, depriving the Secretariat of State of real control of the property despite the disbursement of millions. Through deceit and manipulation, he succeeded in having the Vatican approve the agreement without having effective ownership, a fact that, according to the Court, was a clear case of fraud. Torzi also benefitted from additional payments, which the Court considered unjustified, relying on a legal interpretation that equates this situation to a «return horse», namely, the demand for money in exchange for returning an asset that already belonged to its legitimate owner.

Becciu and His Relationship with Marogna

Cardinal Becciu was a protagonist in another controversial chapter within the trial. His implication in the diversion of funds to his collaborator Cecilia Marogna uncovered the irregular use of Holy See money under the pretext of a humanitarian operation to release an abducted nun in Mali. Marogna used part of these funds for personal luxury expenses, which distorted the initial purpose of the transaction. The sentence reveals that Becciu not only guaranteed the payments, but he also maintained a close relationship with Marogna even after discovering the embezzlement, something that the Court described as improper for an official of his level. 

Disbursements to Family Members and Ethical Questions

Another aspect the Court addressed was the giving of funds to a cooperative managed by Antonino Becciu, the Cardinal’s brother. Although these funds were supposedly for charitable purposes, the Court found that the family connection and the lack of written authorization constituted a violation of the Vatican Penal Code and of canon 1298,  which explicitly prohibits the management of ecclesiastical assets for the benefit of relatives up to the fourth degree without express authorization.

A Ruling That Marks A Point of Inflection

This verdict is a watershed in the administration of justice in the Vatican, marking a change to greater supervision of ecclesiastical finances. The sentence emphasizes that the Vatican, in its endeavor for ethical management, will not tolerate the misuse of its resources, stressing the responsibility of its officials for the wellbeing of the Church and her faithful. 

This judicial process will be remembered not only for the magnitude of those involved and of the examined crimes, but also as an example of the Holy See’s determination to eradicate corruption and reinforce the integrity of its financial operations at the global level. 

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The celebration took place in the Cathedral of the Saviour, the so-called Church of the North in Xicheng district, in the presence of about 140 priests and 500 faithful representing the Catholic community of Beijing but also that of Shanxi, from where the new bishop hails.

The Vatican Press Office also reported the ordination, as is now customary thanks to the agreement between the Vatican and China on episcopal appointments, noting that Pope Francis had approved the candidature on 28 August, thus before the renewal of the agreement, for four years, was announced on Tuesday.

It is also worth noting that in publishing the profile of Bishop Zhen, who was born on 10 May 1970 in Changzhi, the Vatican Press Office also mentions that after his first years at the seminary of Beijing and before his priestly ordination, “he continued his studies at Saint John’s University, United States,” which he attended between 1993 and 1997, “obtaining a licentiate in liturgy».

This detail about his studies in the United States was omitted in the biographical notes published on the official website of the Chinese Catholic Patriotic Association.

Four other bishops joined Archbishop Li Shan at the ordination: Bishop Peter Ding Lingbin of Changzhi (Bishop Zhen’s home diocese), Bishop Joseph Guo Jincai of Chengde, Bishop John Baptist Li Suguang of Nanchang, and Bishop Anthony Yao Shun of Jining.

Fides, the news agency of the Pontifical Mission Societies, covered the episcopal ordination, citing some of the words the new coadjutor bishop said during the celebration, inspired by the episcopal motto he chose “All this I do for the sake of the gospel” (1 Cor 9:23), which stands out on his coat of arms.

“I am grateful to the Lord for his grace in choosing me, a humble servant, as Coadjutor Bishop of the Diocese of Beijing,” the new bishop is quoted as saying. “I am aware that I do not have the qualities required for the task entrusted to me, but I accept it in faith and entrust myself to the intercession of the Blessed Virgin Mary and St. Matthew the Apostle, trusting with all my heart and promising to dedicate myself entirely to the fulfilment of my pastoral duties, because ‘All this I do for the sake of the gospel’.”

Fides also reports that Pope Francis’s approval for the appointment was expressly mentioned. By contrast, no Chinese source cited any statement by Archbishop Li Shan, nor any official explanation as to why a coadjutor bishop was designated for Beijing at this time.

Unlike an auxiliary bishop, the coadjutor bishop has the right of succession at the head of a diocese; for this reason, he is usually appointed when the office holder is elderly or sick and the handover is considered relatively imminent. In this case, the current Archbishop of Beijing, Li Shan, is 59 years old, that is, just five years older than Zhen Xuebin.

According to some sources, Li Shan himself asked for the appointment of a coadjutor, suggesting the name of the priest who had been his closest aide for some time in running the archdiocese.

In addition to being archbishop, Mgr Li also chairs the Chinese Catholic Patriotic Association and is vice-president of the Council of Chinese Bishops.

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Radcliffe was Mater of the Order of Preachers between 1992 and 2001. Previously he was the Director of the Las Casas Institute in Blackfriars, Oxford, center for the promotion of social justice and human rights. He was born in London in 1945, studied at Worth Preparatory School in Sussex and at Saint John’s College, Oxford. He entered the Dominican Order in 1965 and was ordained priest in 1971. He is Spiritual Assistant in the current Synod on Synodality and directed the Spiritual Retreat in Ariccia, Italy, in preparation for the Second Session of the Synod on Synodality. 

In an interview with the BBC on October 13, he said he requested the Pope to dispense him from wearing a Cardinal’s red clothing and allow him to keep his habit of the Order of Preachers.

In the interview, the English priest explained that he wished to wear his religious habit without the “elaborate Cardinal’s tunic.” Radcliffe commented that the Holy Father expressed “full understanding” and that he would “free him from using such elaborate clothing.”

The Cardinals’ clothing is a purple-red cassock, a white roquette, a wool cover, a skullcap and a red sash. The color symbolizes martyrdom, as Cardinals are called to give the greatest service to the Church, including with their life. 

Father Radcliffe has sparked controversy for his support of relations between same-sex individuals and some positions promoting the LGBTI ideology. 

In an article published in L’Osservatore Romano on September 19, he said that homosexual “desires” are “given by God and need to be “educated” instead of being repressed. “The teaching of the Church is already evolving, renewed by the experience lived: homosexuals are no longer seen in terms of sexual acts, but as our brothers and sisters that, according to Pope Francis, can be blessed.”

Father Radcliffe has been criticized in his own Order for another article published in The Tablet, titled “Can Gays Be Priests?” — although it is always advisable to specify some phrases of his position. His relevant presence in the Synod and appointment as Cardinal, contrasts with those who hold more traditional positions. 

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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.

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Following is the full translation of the Cardinal’s press release.

* * *

Communication of Cardinal Victor Manuel Fernández in the Synod’s 13th General Congregation:

I want to clarify that Group 5 is coordinated by the Doctrinal Secretary of the Dicastery for the Doctrine of the Faith. Last Friday [October 18,ndt] he underwent a medical intervention and proposed in his place two very capable listeners to take up the proposals. Then I learnt that some persons expected my presence and I offered a meeting on Thursday at 04:30 pm.

We know that the Holy Father has expressed that the question of the feminine diaconate is not mature at this moment, and has asked that we not dwell on this possibility now. The Study Commission on the topic has reached partial conclusions, which we will publish in due course, but it will continue working.

Moreover, the Holy Father is very concerned about women’s role in the Church and, already before the Synod’s request, he asked the Dicastery for the Doctrine of the Faith to explore the possibilities of a development  without focusing on Holy Orders. We cannot work in another direction, but I must say I am totally in agreement. Why?

Because to think of the diaconate for a few women doesn’t resolve the question of the millions of women there are in the Church. Moreover, we have not yet taken some steps we can take instead. I will give only some examples:

1)When the new ministry of the catechist was created, the Dicastery for Divine Worship sent a letter to the Episcopal Conferences. In it , it proposed two ways of configurating the ministry. One was related to the direction of the catechesis. The second, however, picked up what the Pope said in “Querida Amazonia” about catechists that support communities in the absence of priests, women that are at the front, direct communities and carry out different functions. The Episcopal Conference could accept this second way, but very few did so. This proposal was possible because the Pope had explained in his documents that the priestly power, linked to the Sacraments, is not expressed necessarily as power or authority, and that there are forms of authority that do not require Holy Orders. However, these texts have not been accepted.

2) [The role of] acolyte for women was granted in fact in a small percentage in dioceses, and many times it is priests who do not want to present women to the Bishop for this ministry.

3)In how many dioceses of the world has the diaconate for men been received? And where it has been received, how many times are they just «ordained altar boys»?

These few examples make us realize that to hasten to request the ordination of women  deacons is not the most important response to promote women today.

To foster reflection, I have requested that testimonies be sent to my Dicastery of women that are really community leaders or who carry out important functions of authority. Not because they have been imposed in the community, or as a result of a study, but because they have acquired that authority under the impulse of the Spirit in response to a need of the people. The reality is superior to the idea.  This is the line of work at this stage. I ask especially the women members of this Synod that they help to collect, make explicit and transmit to the Dicastery different proposals, which we can listen to in their context, about possible ways for women’s participation in the direction of the Church. We await proposals and reflections in this line.

Hence on Thursday I will listen to ideas on the role of women in the Church. For those who were very concerned about procedures and names, I will explain it on Thursday and give the proper names, so that faces can be associated to this work.

Despite what has been said, for those that are convinced that it is necessary to reflect further on the question of the feminine diaconate, the Holy Father confirmed to me that the Commission, presided over by Cardinal Giuseppe Petrocchi, will continue to be active. The members of the Synod who so desire can send — individually or in group –, to the said Commission considerations, proposals, articles or concerns about this question. Cardinal Petrocchi confirmed to me that the works will be resumed in the coming months and will analyze the materials that have arrived.

Friends, I am convinced that we can advance step by step, and reach very concrete things, so that we can understand that there is nothing in women’s nature that impedes them from having very important posts in the direction of the Churches. What truly comes from the Holy Spirit will not be stopped.

Translation of the Italian original into Spanish by ZENIT’s Editorial Director and, into English, by Virginia M. Forrester.

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***

Dear Brother,

With your elevation to the College of Cardinals, you will become a member of the Roman clergy.  Welcome!  That membership is an expression of the Church’s unity and of the bond that unites all the Churches with this Church of Rome.

I urge you to make every effort as a Cardinal to embody the three attitudes with which an Argentinian poet (Francisco Luis Bernárdez) once characterized Saint John of the Cross, and which are also applicable to us: “eyes raised, hands joined, feet bare”.

Eyes raised, because your service will require you to lengthen your gaze and broaden your heart, in order to see farther and to love more expansively and with greater fervour.  To sit with John of the Cross “at the school of his gaze” (Benedict XVI), which is the pierced side of Christ.

Hands joined, because what the Church most needs – together with the preaching of the Gospel – is your prayer to be able to shepherd well the flock of Christ.  Prayer is the realm of discernment that helps me to seek and discover God’s will for our people, and to follow it.

Feet bare, because they touch the harsh realities of all those parts of the world overwhelmed by the pain and suffering due to war, discrimination, persecution, hunger and many forms of poverty; these will demand from you great compassion and mercy.

I thank you for your generosity and I assure you of my prayers that the title of “servant” (deacon) will increasing eclipse that of “eminence”.

Pray for me, and may Jesus bless you and the Holy Virgin accompany you.

Fraternally,

FRANCIS

Rome, Saint John Lateran, 6 October 2024

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