Statement on the Naming of Archbishop Blase J. Cupich to the College of Cardinals
His Holiness, Pope Francis, announced today at the Vatican that Archbishop Blase J. Cupich is a cardinal-designate and will be among the 17 new cardinals to be created at the consistory November 19, 2016, at the Basilica of St. Peter in Vatican City. Archbishop Cupich was appointed to head the Chicago archdiocese, the nation’s third largest, by Pope Francis on September 20, 2014.
“The news this morning that Pope Francis has named me to the College of Cardinals is both humbling and encouraging,” said Blase J. Cupich, Archbishop of Chicago. “I offer my best wishes to the other Cardinals-elect, especially Kevin Farrell and Joseph Tobin, and I look forward to joining with them and the other cardinals as we work together with the Holy Father for the good of the Church."
“When Pope Francis appointed me Archbishop of Chicago more than two years ago, the people of the archdiocese welcomed me as a friend and brother and I committed wholeheartedly to serve them,” said Archbishop Cupich. “The role of Cardinal brings new responsibilities, but with your prayers and help, we will continue the task we have begun of renewing the Church in the archdiocese and preparing it to thrive in the decades ahead.”