When do Cardinals retire?

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I was wondering how long cardinals hold their positions. Is it for life, unless expelled somehow? Thanks in advance,

Ariel

-- Anonymous, May 04, 1998

Answers

Response to terms of cardinals

Rich,

Where you say (below) that Cardinals retire their positions at 70, I don't think that's right. If they are Bishops of a diocese then they must retire at 75, but also if they are in the Roman Curia, they retire at 75. The point about Cardinal Ratzinger is that the Holy Father appoints Curial officials for 5-year terms. Cardinal Ratzinger's third 5-year term recently finished and he didn't want to stay for another 5, but the Holy Father appointed him for another term! That's what you get when you do a good job!

God bless, Paul McLachlan Webmaster, The Catholic Pages

-- Anonymous, May 06, 1998


Response to terms of cardinals

The position of cardinal is one that is supposed to be lifelong, unless of course, he was elected Pope or, God forbid, chose to renounce the church and leave the priesthood. Actually a cardinal is just a elevated ( promoted) bishop.

-- Anonymous, May 04, 1998

Response to terms of cardinals

Hi Ariel,

A Cardinal is as connie said A Bishop with an honorary title. Cardinals are Cardinals for life. The color that they wear is Red it symbolizes their willingness to shed their blood for the Christ and his Church. Cardinals have various positions in the Church and are appointed for different periods of time. A Cardinal can resign his position due to health or age and can be moved from one position to another by the Pope. These positions are made up of the various Curial offices and Congregations and usually offer the Pope their resignation when they turn 70. However as we have seen with Cardinal Ratzinger the Pope can refuse it and ask that they remain "on the job" As you know they are also the ones that elect a new Pope, but only those under the age of 80 can vote.

Rich Pohlman S.F.O.

-- Anonymous, May 04, 1998


Response to terms of cardinals

Hi Paul,

Thanks for the correction please do so in the future. Your right I knew it was 70 something. Cardinal O'Connor is another example I believe that he is 75 but the Pope has asked him to stay on. Yes I agree that Cardinal Ratinzer has done a very good job!

Rich Pohlman S.F.O.

-- Anonymous, May 06, 1998


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