The archbishop of Washington, DC, was named one of 13 new cardinals by Pope Francis, and will become the first Black American prelate elevated to cardinal. Gregory will officially receive the title on November 28.
Wilton Gregory on the announcement that he is being named cardinal next month: “With a very grateful and humble heart, I thank Pope Francis for this appointment which will allow me to work more closely with him in caring for Christ’s Church.”
The list includes 9 under the age of 80, meaning who could be electors/elected in the next conclave, and 4 over that age, including Fr. Raniero Cantalamessa, Preacher of the Papal Household.
The first man on the list is Archbishop Mario Grech, from Malta, Secretary General of the Synod of Bishops. Traditionally, he’ll be tasked with addressing the new cardinals at the consistory.
The list also includes the archbishop of Kigali, Rwanda; one from Philippines; from Brunei; two from Italy, including the custos of the Holy Convent of Assisi.
Last but not least, Archbishop Celestino Aos, from Santiago, Chile, and Archbishop Wilton Gregory of Washington, DC.
