Later this month, Pope Benedict XVI will create 23 new Cardinals. This group consists of 20 archbishops, two priests from religious orders and one other individial, Chaldean Patriarch Emmanuel-Karim Delly.
The elevation of Patriarch Delly sends a strong message across the world. For nearly 20 years, he served as an auxiliary bishop in Baghdad, Iraq. He had a brief retirement beginning in 2002 until he was elected patriarch in 2003.
For many years, Patriarch Delly has been the voice of the suffering of the entire Iraqi nation, not just the small Christian community. He has vocally advocated that all nations embrace fleeing Iraqi citizens and not force them to return to Iraq.
Patriarch Delly has already turned 80 and won't be eligible to vote in a conclave to elect a new pope. However, his being elevated to the College of Cardinals is a clear indication that the Vatican recognizes not only the ongoing struggles of Christians in the Middle East, but recognizes the entities that have created the obstacles that have led to such struggles.
As Patriarch Delly receives the red hat, let us all pray for our brothers and sisters struggling in the Middle East.
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