The Catholic Church is a 2,000-year-old institution with a rich history and a complex structure. One of the fascinating aspects of this structure is the role of Cardinals. If you’ve ever wondered what exactly a Cardinal is and what role they play in the Church, then you’re in the right place.
Who Are Cardinals?
Cardinals are high-ranking officials in the Catholic Church, directly appointed by the Pope. They come from the clergy, which means they’ve typically been bishops first, and their main job is to assist the Pope in governing the Church. In some sense, they’re like the Pope’s advisors or cabinet ministers, but their roles have spiritual and theological dimensions too.
The Historical Development
The institution of the Cardinalate has evolved over time. The title “Cardinal” comes from the Latin word “cardo,” meaning hinge. Just like a hinge allows a door to swing open or closed, Cardinals are pivotal in the workings of the Church.
Their Role in the Church
Advising the Pope
Cardinals have various duties and responsibilities, but one of the most important is to act as counselors to the Pope. The Catechism of the Catholic Church tells us that the Pope, the Bishop of Rome and Peter’s successor, “is the perpetual and visible source and foundation of the unity both of the bishops and of the whole company of the faithful” (CCC 882). Cardinals assist the Pope in carrying out this hefty responsibility.
Governance and Administration
Cardinals often head various departments or “dicasteries” in the Roman Curia, which is the administrative and governing body of the Holy See. They help in executing laws, managing resources, and taking care of other administrative functions.
Celebrating Liturgy
Cardinals also have liturgical roles. Liturgy, or public worship, is one of the essential functions of the Church. Cardinals often celebrate Mass in important events and feasts and can be seen serving alongside the Pope in St. Peter’s Basilica during major celebrations.
Conclave: Electing a New Pope
One of the most crucial responsibilities of a Cardinal is to participate in the Conclave to elect a new Pope when the current Pope dies or resigns. According to Canon Law, Cardinals who are under the age of 80 are eligible to vote in the Conclave. This is a sacred responsibility, and as the Catechism reminds us, the Pope’s role is of “supreme, full, immediate, and universal ordinary power in the Church” (CCC 882). So, the Cardinals play a vital role in deciding who will take on this critical position.
Universal Teachings vs. Theological Opinions
It’s important to distinguish between the universal teachings of the Church and theological opinions when discussing the role of Cardinals. The details mentioned above regarding the governance of the Church and the role of the Pope are universal teachings. But you might find theological opinions on whether the current process of appointing Cardinals is the most effective, or whether the role of Cardinals should be adapted to modern times. These are not universal teachings but opinions that are subject to debate and discussion within the Church.
In the Light of Scripture and Tradition
While the Bible doesn’t explicitly mention the role of Cardinals, it does outline the hierarchical nature of the Church and the importance of orderly governance. St. Paul, in his letters, often speaks of various roles within the Church, like bishops, priests, and deacons (e.g., 1 Timothy 3:1-13). The role of the Cardinal can be seen as a development of these early Church offices, guided by the Holy Spirit through Tradition.
Jesus Christ himself instituted the Church’s hierarchical structure when He chose the twelve Apostles and gave Peter a preeminent role. Christ told Peter, “You are Peter, and on this rock, I will build my Church” (Matthew 16:18). The role of Cardinals is a later development but aligns with the biblical principle of a hierarchical Church led by the successor of Peter.
Conclusion
In summary, Cardinals are high-ranking clergy whose primary role is to assist the Pope in governing the Universal Church. They play critical roles in administration, advising the Pope, liturgical celebrations, and especially in electing a new Pope. While they are an essential part of the Church’s tradition and governance, they also adapt to the needs of the modern Church. Understanding their role helps us appreciate the complexity and beauty of the Catholic Church’s structure, rooted in a tradition that stretches back to the time of the Apostles.