"Pope Francis Appoints Diverse Group of 21 Cardinals, Expanding Global Representation"

Pope Francis has announced the appointment of 21 new cardinals from various countries, including the United States, Hong Kong, and South Africa. The ceremony will take place on September 30th. The selection of Bishop Stephen Chow from Hong Kong comes amid tensions between the region and the Catholic Church over the Vatican's deal with China on the appointment of bishops. The appointment of Archbishop Christophe Pierre from the U.S. as a cardinal-elect is considered rare. After the ceremony, there will be 137 cardinal electors eligible to participate in the selection of the next pope.