Canberra celebrates strong ties with three new Cardinals

Three of the 21 newly appointed Cardinals-elect – Fr Timothy Radcliffe, Bishop Mikola Bychok and Archbishop Frank Leo

Pope Francis has recently announced the appointment of 21 new cardinals, three of whom are well-known to Canberra.

Eparch of the Ukrainian Catholic Church in Australia, Bishop Mikola Bychok, a vibrant and youthful 44-year-old based in Melbourne, has visited Canberra several times.

Archbishop Christopher Prowse expressed that his appointment is a beacon of hope and inspiration, especially for those from migrant backgrounds.

“Isn’t it fantastic news that such a young Cardinal comes from a migrant background – it serves as a testament to the potential and promise of the younger generation,” he said.

His appointment also reminds us of our prayers for Ukraine amidst its ongoing conflict.”

In his congratulatory message, Archbishop Prowse highlighted the significant and invaluable contributions of Eastern Catholics to Australian society.

“This underscores the rise of Eastern Catholics in our country and showcases the wonderful expertise and insights they bring to the broader Australian community.”

Fr Frank Leo in Canberra with some of the Carmelite Sisters

This recognition of their contributions is a testament to the Catholic community’s respect and value for diversity and inclusivity.

The Archbishop also praised the elevation of Cardinal-elect Frank Leo, who was posted to Canberra for several years to the Apostolic Nunciature in Australia. He is currently the Archbishop of Toronto, Canada.

“We are delighted to hear that Archbishop Frank Leo has become a cardinal in this new group,” Archbishop Prowse said, extending his heartfelt prayers for Cardinal-elect Leo’s continued success in his ministry.

(L-R) Cardinal-elect Timothy Radcliffe during his recent visit to Canberra with Archbishop Christopher Prowse

Father Timothy Radcliffe, another notable figure among the new cardinals, visited Canberra earlier this year to lead a religious education retreat.

Archbishop Prowse celebrated Cardinal-elect Radcliffe’s influential work, stating, “He spoke extensively about synodality, which aligns with our forthcoming Archdiocesan assembly.”

“We thank the Lord for these three men, witnessing how God has chosen them for something great, and offer them our prayers and best wishes.”

According to Catholic News Service, the 21 cardinals-elect appointed by Pope Francis represent 18 different countries. Among them, eight are from Europe, five from Latin America, five from Asia, two from Africa, and one from North America.

As the Archdiocese of Canberra and Goulburn, along with the global Catholic community, embrace the new appointments, Archbishop Prowse’s reflections remind us of the unity, hope, and rich diversity of faith that the new cardinals symbolise.

• Cardinals serve as close advisors to the Holy Father and participate in conclaves as voting members to select the next pope. With the recent appointments, the number of cardinals will rise to 256. Cardinals are eligible to vote in conclaves until they reach their 80th birthday.