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Pope Francis appointed 13 new cardinals, including nine under the age of 80 who are eligible to enter a conclave to choose their successor after their death or resignation.
They will be elevated to high rank in a ceremony known as a consistory at the Vatican next month.
The nine electors come from all over the world and increase the possibility that the next pope will be a person who continues the policies of Francis.
Those under 80 include Archbishop Wilton Gregory of Washington DC.
The four non-electors in their 80s are being elevated to a high rank due to their long service to the church.
The Pope made the surprise announcement as he addressed pilgrims from his window overlooking St. Peter’s Square.
13 new cardinals
Mario Grech – Secretary General of the Synod of Bishops
Marcello semeraro – Prefect of the Congregation for the Causes of Saints
Antoine kambanda – Archbishop of Kilgali, Rwanda
Wilton gregory – Archbishop of Washington, USA
Jose Fuerte Advincula – Archbishop of Capiz, Philippines
Celestino Aós Braco – Archbishop of Santiago, Chile
Huntersville Sim – Apostolic Vicar of Brunei
Augusto Paolo Lojudice – Archbishop of Siena, Italy
Mauro gambetti – Guardian of the Holy Franciscan Convent of Assisi
*Felipe Arizmendi Esquivel – Archbishop Emeritus of San Cristóbal de Las Casas, Mexico
* Silvano Tomasi – Former Apostolic Nuncio and former Permanent Observer of the UN in Geneva
* Raniero Cantalamessa – Capuchin Father and Preacher of the Pontifical Household
*Enrico Feroci – Shepherd of the Sanctuary of Divine Love
* New cardinals who will be over 80 years old
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