Cardinals called to day of reflection before February consistory

February 03, 2012

Pope Benedict XVI has called all members of the College of Cardinals to join in a day of reflection on February 17, on the eve of the consistory at which he will create 21 new cardinals.

The day of reflection will begin with Lauds and conclude with Vespers. The main theme of the day’s discussions, will be the “new evangelization.” Reports will be presented by Cardinal-designate Timothy Dolan of New York and Archbishop Salvatore Fisichella, the president of the Pontifical Council for New Evangelization.

In his original announcement of the consistory that will take place on February 18, Pope Benedict named 22 new cardinals. However the Vatican announced on February 3 that Father Joseph Becker, SJ, will be unable to attend the ceremony because of ill health. The Jesuit scholar, who is 83 years old, will receive his red hat in private at another time, the Vatican said.

All of the other prelates who will be raised to the College of Cardinals at the February consistory will also be asked to take part in the day of reflection.

 

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Further information:

• Day of Reflection and Prayer for Forthcoming Consistory (VIS)
• Pope names 22 new cardinals (CWN, 1/6)