The first pope of Latin American origin also favored archbishops and bishops from non-European countries.
He plans to appoint twenty-one new cardinals in December, Pope Francis announced on Sunday in his address to the faithful gathered in St. Peter's Square in the Vatican.
The move would significantly expand the membership of the college of cardinals, which body will ultimately decide on the successor of the current Catholic head of the church.
The appointment ceremony is scheduled for December 8 at the Vatican.
About 20 of the 21 new cardinals will be eligible to participate in the conclave electing the pope, given that those under the age of 80 can participate.
Most of the members of the current body of cardinals were appointed by Pope Francis, who was elected in March 2013, so he will have great influence in the selection of his successor.
As before, the first pope of Latin American origin preferred archbishops and bishops from non-European countries. The candidates include priests from Indonesia, Japan, Iran, Algeria, Argentina, Brazil, Chile, Ecuador and Peru.
MTI
Cover photo: Pope Francis
Source: Facebook/Vatican News
