Cardinal Wuerl added to Congregation for Bishops, replacing Cardinal Burke

December 16, 2013

Pope Francis has named Washington's Cardinal Donald Wuerl to the Congregation for Bishops, while declining to extend the tenure of Cardinal Raymond Burke on that influential body.

The Pope's decision not to confirm Cardinal Burke as a member of the Congregation that helps choose the world's bishops has been interpreted by many Vatican-watchers as a policy shift. Cardinal Burke has regularly championed conservative positions in Church debates, while Cardinal Wuerl represents positions closer to the mainstream of the American hierarchy.

The switch, however, could be explained by other reasons. Cardinal Burke, who now serves in Rome as head of the Apostolic Signatura, may be regarded by the Vatican as less current with the needs and desires of the American hierarchy, and with the potential candidates for episcopal office.

Pope Francis confirmed another American prelate, Cardinal William Levada, the former prefect of the Congregation for the Doctrine of the Faith, to continue his membership on the Congregation for Bishops.

 

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Further information:

• Other Pontifical Acts (VIS)
• In Rome, an American rises and another American fades (Religion News)
• Wuerl named to bishops' panel; Burke not confirmed (National Catholic Reporter)