Timothy Radcliffe has just turned 80. He is one of the last cardinals created by Pope Francis. He did so in December 2024, at his last consistory. Radcliffe was already 79, so the Pope's decision seems to have been more a recognition of his work than a promotion.
This Dominican is not a bishop, nor does he hold a high office in the Curia. He is a religious man and theologian who was Master General of the Order of Preachers for nine years.
When Pope Francis created him a cardinal, he asked the Pope to keep his white Dominican habit, even during solemn celebrations. In fact, he was able to vote at the last conclave and was seen doing so.
But if Radcliffe has become famous and has become better known for anything, it was for his participation in the Synod. The Pope entrusted him with meditations and the leadership of synodal retreats in 2023 and 2024.
Although his influence has not gone unnoticed, he has been involved in several controversies due to some of his statements about the Fiducia Supplicans regarding the position of African bishops.
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