"Pope Francis appoints diverse group of 21 new cardinals, expanding global representation"

Pope Francis has chosen 21 new cardinals, including the Latin Patriarch of Jerusalem and the bishop of Hong Kong, as he continues to shape the body of churchmen who will select his successor. The new cardinals also include prelates holding major Vatican posts, such as the archbishop from La Plata, Argentina, who was recently named to lead the Holy See's office for ensuring doctrinal orthodoxy and overseeing the processing of allegations of sexual abuse against clergy worldwide. The appointments reflect the pope's focus on regions where Catholics are a minority and his desire for a more diverse and inclusive Church.