Pope Francis announces new cardinals

Pope Francis leads the Angelus prayer from his window, at the Vatican, July 2, 2023. Vatican Media/Handout via REUTERS

VATICAN CITY (Reuters) - Pope Francis on Sunday announced that he would elevate 21 churchmen to the high rank of cardinal, once again putting his mark on the group that will one day elect his successor after his death or resignation.

The ceremony to install them, known as a consistory, will be held on Sept. 30, Francis announced during his noon prayer to pilgrims and tourist in St. Peter's Square.