CardinalFrancisArinze

Cardinal Arinze’s Stats

Born November 1, 1932 in Nigeria.

Ordained a priest on November 23, 1958.

Ordained coadjutor bishop of Onitsha on August 29, 1965 (succeeded onJune 26, 1967).

Cardinal Arinze’s Stats

Appointed to lead Pont. Council for Interreligious Dialogue on April 8, 1984.

Created cardinal on May 25, 1985.

Prefect of Cong. for Worship & Sacraments in October 1, 2002.

Cardinal Arinze’s Facts

Retired on December 9, 2008.

Participated in the fourth session ofVatican II.

Appointed one of only six cardinal-bishops in the church.

Youngest bishop in the world (32 years old). First native African to lead his diocese.

Served on the committee to oversee the Jubilee in 2000.

Had to flee during Nigerian civil war.

College of CardinalsWith the 80thbirthday ofCardinal Arinze,the College ofCardinals nowhas 205 members,115 of which are under the age of 80 and thus eligible to vote in a papal conclave.

Cardinal Arinze voted in the 2005conclave that elected Pope Benedict XVI.