I know, I know, but one can hope, no?
I know, I know, but one can hope, no?
Easily the best man for the job.
To whom do you refer?
Here is an interesting take on the in pectore situation from a wise friend. I have permission to share -
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This evening on MSNBC a "nun" -- plainclothes division -- who was with the
Canon Law Society of America (which is far from being orthodox) made the
following contentions in regard to a Cardinal "in pectore":
1. that he would not know his identity as a Cardinal.
2. that a Cardinal "in pectore" would have to make his status "public".
3. that a Cardinal "in pectore" would cease to be a Cardinal, upon the
death of the pope who created him a Cardinal.
The first statement is clearly ludicrous. Even in the Cold War days, there
was always a way to send a message by coded & covert means to inform the new
Cardinal. Bishops, Archbishops, and Cardinals "in pectore" are named by a pope
for a reason. They have a mission, which their status enables. While such status
can be a reward, it is not normally a "pat on the head".
Regarding the second statement, a Cardinal "in pectore" may (and usually is)
is normally instructed to keep his status secret -- a secret to be known only
to himself, future popes, and to others only on a "need to know" basis. This
is usually for the protection of the Cardinal. There would usually be some
sort of documentation in the possession of the Holy See, the Cardinal, or both to
prove his status.
The third statement is false. One is not made a Bishop, Archbishop, or
Cardinal - even if "in pectore" as a temporary measure. First because such a thing
would make no sense. Secondly such status gives very real spiritual authority
and status.
From what I know of "in pectore status", the recipient is normally instructed
to keep his status secret, until told otherwise by the pope -- or his
successor on the Throne of Peter.
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