John Paul II and His Cardinals

In Pope John Paul II's College of Cardinals there are 183 Princes of the Church. They come from 68 countries and all six continents; 96 are from Europe, 50 from North and South America, 17 from Asia, 16 from Africa and 4 from Oceania. These cardinals represent both the universality and the "Roman" nature of the Catholic Church.

This book describes the present (the beginning of the 21st century), but is also deeply rooted in history. It aims to introduce readers everywhere to the cardinalate of Pope John Paul II — to the men he has chosen as his chief colleagues and advisors worldwide.

Appearing in their characteristic vestments of scarlet, a color which symbolizes their readiness for martyrdom in the service of the Church of Christ, the cardinals are exemplars of doctrinal knowledge, mature charisma, spiritual zeal and a spirit of competence.

The creation of the new cardinals in February prompted worldwide media interest, Vatican spokesman Joaquin Navarro-Valls noted at the time. More than 250 correspondents were especially accredited for the occasion as well as some 400 photographers and 74 television crews; 180 radio stations had link-ups with Vatican Radio.