Monsignor Loris Capovilla: cardinal designate at 98
(Vatican Radio) As you’ll certainly have noticed Pope Francis constantly encourages
us to show respect, love and care for the elderly remarking how they are often looked
upon as a burden in today’s society. Perhaps it was one of the reasons he chose
to give one elderly priest the cardinal’s hat. He’s Monsignor Loris Capovilla who
at 98, is soon to join the ranks of his closest advisors. For those who are old
enough to have memories of the pontificate of Blessed John XXIII, Monsignor Capovilla
is no stranger. His was a familiar sight in the late 1950's and early 1960's at the
side of this much loved Pontiff in his quality as personal secretary. Nevertheless
our new Cardinal designate expressed to us his surprise for this honour bestowed
upon him by Pope Francis, describing it as 'a ray of light over the sunset of his
life'. Certainly an honour he claims he owes to John XIII who set an example
in terms of goodness and holiness. But clearly also to the kindness and graciousness
of Pope Francis. In fact Monsignor Capovilla believes that by granting him the cardinal's
hat in the sunset of his life, by the same token the Pope recognises the silent service
of a lifetime to the Church of other priests like him. But in recent months this
was not the only surprise reserved for this 98 year old future cardinal. It’s not
long since he learnt that the Pope he served as secretary is to be canonised. Monsignor
Capovilla highlighted on this occasion how the legacy of Good Pope John is still
very much alive. And is one which continues to replenish, he says in Italian: ‘l’acqua
del villagio’, the village fountain. That’s to say, he specifies, the refreshing
water of the Gospel. Adding how Blessed John XXIII's contribution as a benefactor
to humanity is recognised across the world today among Christians and non- Christians
alike. Cardinal designate Capovilla is a qualified journalist and former editor
of a diocesan weekly magazine in Venice. He served as Pontifical Delegate for the
Shrine of the Holy House of Loreto from 1971 until his retirement in 1988. When created
cardinal he’ll become the oldest member of the College of Cardinals. Listen to
this programme presented and produced by Veronica Scarisbrick :