By Emmanuel Gandu
WHO IS A CARDINAL ?
- “Cardinal” is derived from the Latin term “Cardo” which means “hinge”. Just like the hinges of a door, the Cardinals are the hinges on which all church government turns, with the Pope as the door.
- The word “Cardinal” was first used in Rome at the 6th Century to designate Deacons involved in the governance of the church.
In the year 769, a decree from a Synod of Bishops stated that only a Cardinal could become a Pope. - Cardinals play a pivotal role in church administration generally, and especially during times of transition between Popes, including the election of a new Pope from among them.
- A Cardinal is the second highest position next only to the Pope in the Catholic Church hierarchy.
- A Cardinal is created (appointed) by the Pope from among the Bishops, Archbishops, or as may be decided by the Pope.
CARDINALS FROM NIGERIA : 1976 – 2025
Nigeria has produced 5 Cardinals. They are :
(1) Dominic Cardinal Ekandem – Born 23/6/1917 from Akwa Ibom. Was appointed in 1976
(2) Francis Cardinal Arinze – Born 1/11/1932 from Onitsha. Was appointed in 1985
(3) Anthony Cardinal Okogie – Born 16/6/1936 from Lagos. Was appointed in 2003.
(4) John Cardinal Onaiyekan – Born 29/1/1944 from Kabba. Was appointed in 2012.
(5) Peter Cardinal Opaleke – Born 1/3/1963 from Anambra. Was appointed in 2022.
Glory to Jesus
Peace 🙏
22/4/2025