Pope Francis has made an important announcement regarding the Catholic Church, stating that he will be convening a gathering of Cardinals on September 30, 2023. During this assembly, the Pope will appoint a total of 21 new Cardinals. Notably, among the chosen individuals are two associated with Bethlehem University.
One of the newly appointed Cardinals will be the Latin Patriarch of Jerusalem, Pierbattista Pizzaballa. Throughout his years of service as Custos of the Holy Land and Guardian of Mount Zion, as well as in his current role as Patriarch of Jerusalem, His Excellency has consistently shown unwavering support for Bethlehem University. In recognition of this dedication, the entire Bethlehem University community extends their warmest congratulations and assures the newly elected Cardinal of their prayers.
Additionally, Archbishop Claudio Gugerotti, the Prefect of the Dicastery for Eastern Churches, will also be among the 21 newly appointed Cardinals. Having assumed his position in the Dicastery in January 2023, Archbishop Gugerotti succeeded Cardinal Sandri, who had served as Prefect from 2007 until January 2023. The Vatican has actively supported Bethlehem University through the Dicastery as part of a joint venture, for the past 50 years. Bethlehem University, once again, extends heartfelt congratulations to Archbishop Gugerotti on his elevation to the cardinalate and offers prayerful support.