Catholic World News News Feature

Pope confers red hats on 15 new cardinals March 24, 2006

Pope Benedict XVI today raised 15 prelates to the College of Cardinals, telling them: "I am counting on you to tell the world that 'God is love.'"

The Holy Father presided at the first consistory of his pontifcate on March 24, and in his homily he spoke at length about the duties of cardinals in spreading the Gospel and serving Christian unity.

Those who hold positions of authority in the Church, the Pope said, should be characterized by "total and generous availability to serve others." Modeling themselves after Jesus, who gave his life in service to mankind, Church leaders must sacrifice themselves for the good of the flock, the pope said.

Although the face of the College of Cardinals has changed over the centuries, the Pope remarks, "the substance and nature of this important ecclesial organism has never changed." He called attention to the scarlet vestments the new cardinals now wore, and remarked, "May it truly symbolize an ardent Christian love, shining forth in your lives."

The ceremony began, on a windy and overcast day, when the 15 new cardinals processed into St. Peter's Square to their placed in front of the basilica. Pope Benedict opened the ceremony. Then Cardinal-elect William Levada, the prefect of the Congregation for the Doctine of the Faith, spoke on behalf of the new cardinals to thank the Pontiff for according them their new honors, and promising their "loving and devoted fidelity, without limit or reserve."

After his homily, the Pope led the profession of faith, in which each new cardinal vowed his loyalty to the Church and the Roman Pontiff. Then each prelate came forward in turn to kneel before Pope Benedict, who placed the red biretta on his head. The Pope also assigned each cardinal to a titular parish in Rome, and embraced him with the sign of peace.

During the prayers of the faithful, which were read in several different languages, intercessions were made for the Pope and his cardinals, but also for the leaders of nations. A prayer in Chinese was read "for those who still suffer" for the cause of the faith. The ceremony closed, just after noon, with a hymn to the Virgin Mary, whose feast, the Annunciation, is celebrated March 25. The new cardinals will concelebrate Mass for that feast day with the Pope in St. Peter's Square.