Welcome Canada’s Newest Cardinal, Archbishop Frank Leo
Vatican News recently had the opportunity to speak with Canada’s newest Cardinal, Archbishop Frank Leo of Toronto, about the pressing challenges facing the world today. Cardinal Leo emphasized the need for a spiritual awakening to bring the newness of life and of God into the world.
By Joseph Tulloch
On Saturday, December 7th, a total of twenty-one men are being elevated to the rank of Cardinal in a Consistory held at St Peter’s Basilica. Among them is Archbishop Frank Leo from Toronto, Canada, who at 53 years old, will become one of the youngest members of the College of Cardinals.
In an exclusive interview with Vatican News prior to the Consistory, Cardinal Leo expressed his excitement about the opportunity to serve the Pope in this new capacity and to foster camaraderie and fraternity with his fellow cardinals.
When asked about the biggest challenges facing the Church today, Cardinal Leo highlighted secularism, political polarization, and the issue of ‘throwaway culture’ as significant obstacles. He stressed the importance of addressing these problems from the human heart and our relationship with God, calling for a spiritual awakening that inspires us to infuse the world with the newness of life and of God.
Cardinal Leo also emphasized the critical need for special attention to the pastoral care of families and young people in today’s context. He acknowledged the difficulties faced by young people today, including temptations, confusion, anxiety, and fear, and underscored the Church’s role as a guide and a listener in supporting them.
Reconciliation between the Church and Indigenous Groups
Furthermore, Cardinal Leo shared insights on the ongoing process of reconciliation between the Church and indigenous groups in Canada, initiated by the country’s bishops following the Pope’s visit in 2022. He expressed encouragement towards the efforts at the local level, noting a newfound awareness of the importance of respecting indigenous persons and cultures.
Cardinal Leo stressed the significance of the Church walking together with indigenous groups as a means of collectively healing our wounded world.
