Indonesian Bishop Declines Cardinalate to Deepen Priestly Life

Indonesia, October 25, 2024: In a rare and humbling move, Bishop Paskalis Bruno Syukur of Bogor, Indonesia, has declined his appointment to the College of Cardinals, a decision Pope Francis accepted, as announced by the Vatican on October 22, 2024. Bishop Syukur, initially chosen as one of 21 new cardinals to be installed on December 7, expressed a deep desire to focus on his personal growth and commitment to serving the Church and its faithful. The decision, which reduces the number of new cardinals to 20, has surprised the Catholic community in Indonesia, particularly as Syukur would have been the first cardinal from outside Java.

Bishop Syukur, a 68-year old Franciscan and secretary general of the Indonesian bishops’ conference, conveyed his wish to deepen his priestly life rather than assume the ceremonial responsibilities of a cardinal. The Vatican’s press office, led by Matteo Bruni, confirmed the bishop’s intentions, emphasizing his devotion to serving the "Church and the People of God." Bishop Antonius Subianto Bunjamin, president of the Indonesian bishops' conference, remarked from Rome that the decision was unexpected but respected.

Bishop Syukur’s decision reflects his Franciscan roots, valuing humility and simplicity over rank. A lifelong servant of the Franciscan Order, he has held numerous leadership roles, including two terms as the Franciscan provincial minister in Indonesia and as a regional delegate for Asia and Oceania. His dedication to the pastoral mission, especially in remote and underserved areas, embodies his profound commitment to the spiritual over the hierarchical.

This decision resonates with Pope Francis’ own vision of a humble, service-oriented Church. By allowing Bishop Syukur to continue his path of spiritual growth without the cardinalate, Pope Francis underscores his belief in a clergy that prioritizes serving the people over holding power.

By Catholic Connect Reporter