Archbishop of New York Edward Egan has been named Cardinal by Pope John Paul II. This is a great news.
whats the difference between an archbishop and a cardinal and a priest? What does his 'elevation' to cardinal mean for him?
I guess more money, first class travel among other perks, and 401K.
Seriously, Cardinals are only one notch below the Pope. Pope named 37 Bishops to Cardinals as he is now preparing to leave and is looking for his successor. Any one of these 37 named can be a good Pope and hopefully will bring Catholicism in line with the 21st century demands. Given their stances on a few theological extremes (e.g., abortions, contraception, etc.) Catholicism is fairly forward looking faith. With someone from New York Diocese becoming a Cardinal (and hopefully a Pope someday) it gives people hope that things will change.
it gives people hope that things will change.
In what sense? Isnt Edward egan a staunch opponent of abortion?
All appointed Bishops/Cardinals are (against abortion). This, in fact, is one of the first thing (and it goes without saying) they have to believe. The history of Church tells us that Popes have strayed away from the old tenants of Christianity after being risen to that position. At one time, Slavery was allowed, those who worked on Sabath were Killed (by Pope’s sanction), not learning Latin was a big sin. Things have a habit of changing.