The consistory went as planned. The only “news” that was expected for this morning was which titular churches the new cardinals would get.
Because cardinals are historically considered part of the clergy of the Rome diocese (because originally they all were in actuality), they are given titular churches of which they become the protectors. Cardinal O’Malley’s church is Our Lady of Victory. It was built by Carmelites in 1603 or 1608. It happens to be right across the street from Santa Susanna, the American church in Rome run by the Paulists, the titular church of .... Cardinal Bernard Law.
I’m sure the Boston media will make a big deal of that.
Interesting that Our Lady of Victory was dedicated to Our Lady under that title after the Imperial armies defeated Muslim invaders and saved Bohemia.
Technorati Tags: Boston, cardinal, Catholic, consistory, vatican
On a somewhat orthogonal note:
Our Lady of Victory is an unbelievably gorgeous church (as is Santa Susanna). However, OLV has one of the most amazing pieces of art I saw in Rome, the incredible statue of “The Ecstasy of St. Teresa”. She is pierced through by an arrow of joy shot by an angel, and she is simply as beautiful a sight as you’ll see in stone. It’s a tiny little place, but a wonderfully uplifting tribute to Christ.
http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Image:PD_BerniniEcstasy.jpg
Rob
I have no idea why my link ended up with an annoying smiley in the middle of it. Didn’t intend that. Sorry!
Rob