The Heart of a Cardinal: Sharing the Gift of Service
French-born Cardinal Jean-Paul Vesco recently joined the College of Cardinals, receiving his red hat from Pope Francis on December 7. This significant event added 21 new members to the College, representing the universal nature of the Church with their diverse backgrounds from 17 countries. Cardinal Vesco, the archbishop of Algiers, Algeria, shared his thoughts on his new role with Vatican News.
Sharing Compassion
Instead of lavish celebrations, Cardinal Vesco chose to mark his entrance into the College of Cardinals by sharing a meal with the less fortunate. Joining forces with the Rome Marathon and the Vatican’s Athletics Club, the cardinal and his companions hosted a dinner for the homeless outside a shelter near St. Peter’s Square. This act of kindness was a way for Cardinal Vesco to extend the gift of his cardinalate to those in need, creating a moment filled with love and compassion.
From Lyon to Rome: A Journey of Service
Born in Lyon, France in 1962, Cardinal Vesco initially pursued a career in law before answering a higher calling to join the Dominican Order at the age of 34. Over the years, he dedicated himself to serving the Church, eventually becoming the bishop of Oran, Algeria. His commitment to the people of Algeria led to his appointment as the archbishop of Algiers in 2022 by Pope Francis.
Challenges and Hope in Algeria
Algeria has faced its share of challenges, from a turbulent history of independence from French colonization to a devastating civil war in the 1990s. Despite these hardships, the country has emerged as a key player in both Africa’s economy and Europe’s energy sector, particularly in natural gas production. Cardinal Vesco’s leadership in Algeria reflects a commitment to fostering peace and unity in a region marked by conflict and division.
As Cardinal Jean-Paul Vesco embarks on this new chapter in his life, his dedication to serving others and spreading a message of love and compassion shines brightly. His journey from Lyon to Rome is not just a personal one but a testament to the transformative power of faith and service in bringing hope to those in need.
