Pope Francis names 21 new cardinals, increasing the number who will one day elect his successor [Video]

POPE FRANCIS TODAY named 21 new cardinals, further cementing his mark on the group of prelates who will one day elect his successor.

The announcement today significantly increases the College of Cardinals.

There are currently 235 cardinals and those under the age of 80 are eligible to vote in conclaves to elect a new Pope.

In a nod to the historic Synod under way at the Vatican this month, Pope Francis elevated Father Timothy Radcliffe to the rank of Cardinal.

The British theologian is one of the spiritual advisers for the Synod, which is taking place until 27 October and may suggest doctrinal changes to Church teaching.

Radcliffe has often publicly challenged the Church’s teaching on LGBTQ+ issues and publicly raised the issue during the first phase of the Synod last year.

Referencing something that came up in private Synod discussions, Fr Radcliffe told the public part the forum last October: “Many of us wept when we heard of that young woman who [died by] suicide …