Bishop Sebastian Francis named as cardinal elect

The Catholic community in Malaysia, Singapore, and Brunei is rejoicing as Pope Francis announced the appointment of Bishop Dato’ Seri Sebastian Francis of Penang as a cardinal.

This historic appointment marks the first time that the region will have two members in the esteemed College of Cardinals.

Alongside Cardinal William Goh of Singapore, Bishop Sebastian Francis will represent the regional Catholic Bishops’ Conference of Malaysia, Singapore, and Brunei.

A momentous appointment

Bishop Sebastian Francis’s elevation to the College of Cardinals is a momentous occasion for Catholics in Malaysia, Singapore, and Brunei. As a Prince of the Church, Bishop Sebastian Francis will play a vital role in assisting Pope Francis in the governance of the Catholic Church.

The appointment highlights his significant contributions to the well-being of the Catholic community, and his new responsibilities will undoubtedly enable him to have an even greater impact in serving the faithful.

This is the second time a Malaysian bishop has been made a cardinal, following the appointment of Cardinal Anthony Soter Fernandez in 2016. Cardinal Fernandez, who passed away in 2020, was the first and only cardinal member of the regional Catholic Bishops’ Conference at that time.

With the recent appointment of Bishop Cornelius Sim from Brunei as a cardinal, the conference now boasts two cardinals who have the privilege to vote in papal conclaves.

Bishop Sebastian Francis’s journey and achievements

Bishop Sebastian Francis has dedicated his life to serving the Catholic Church and the local communities. Born in Johor Bahru, Malaysia, in 1951, he pursued his priestly formation at Saint Francis Xavier’s Minor Seminary in Singapore and College General Seminary in Penang. After being ordained a priest at the age of 26, he served as the vicar general of the Melaka-Johor diocese for many years.

In 2012, Pope Benedict XVI appointed him as the Bishop of Penang, a role he has held since then. Under his leadership, the Church of St. Anne in Bukit Mertajam, Penang, was declared a minor basilica in January 2023. This recognition reflects the significance of the annual Catholic feast celebrated at the church and further enhances the spiritual life of the local community.

Bishop Sebastian Francis’s appointment as cardinal is a testament to his dedication and service to the Church, as well as his commitment to promoting interfaith dialogue and unity in the region. Additionally, he has been entrusted with the role of Chairman of the Office of Social Communication of the Federation of Asian Bishops’ Conference, further highlighting his influence and contributions on a broader scale.

The appointment of Bishop Sebastian Francis as a cardinal by Pope Francis is a momentous occasion for Catholics in Malaysia, Singapore, and Brunei. It represents the recognition of the region’s growing importance within the Catholic Church and highlights the contributions of Bishop Sebastian Francis to the well-being of the faithful.

As the region’s second cardinal, Bishop Sebastian Francis joins Cardinal William Goh in representing the regional Catholic Bishops’ Conference. This appointment is a significant milestone and a source of pride for the Catholic community in the region.

Source: UCA News