The Consistory

Pope Francis opens the Consistory.

 I am going to jump ahead to what we just returned from - the consistory.

Today was the day that was so very unexpected when we began planning this pilgrimage. We never thought the timing would be such that we could attend the consistory that would elevate our Archbishop Cupich to Cardinal Cupich.

Yet there we were amid thousands of others trying to find our way through security in time to get seats. While we did no get seats, for most of us our positions allowed for better viewing.

As I can't resist the opportunity for a bit of formation, let me explain what the consistory consists of -

The liturgy begins with prayers - opening prayers that we are quite familiar with in style and form. The Pope then prays a prayer. A Liturgy of the Word follows; we heard from Luke 6:27-36. The Pope then gave a homily. The Creation of New Cardinals comes next consisting of prayers, the new Cardinals reciting the Creed, and each individual Cardinal promising fidelity and obedience. Once each Cardinal does this, he receives the biretta, his ring, and the titular church. There is the sign of peace, the Lord's Prayer, a prayer, and a closing hymn.

Despite the crowds and the size of St. Peter's basilica, I think you'll find the photos helpful to see a bit of what happened.

Cardinal Cupich receiving his biretta, ring and titular parish in Rome.

A view of the Cardinals under St. Monica's watchful eyes.

Following the consistory, we headed over to the Pontifical North American College for a reception. The reception also afforded us the opportunity for fantastic pictures.

If this pilgrimage sounds of interest to you, 

I invite you to consider joining us on the 2017 pilgrimage 

to Lourdes, Spain, and Portugal. 

See details here.