Catholic cardinals play a key role in secular politics as well as the Catholic Church-and the importance of Pope Francis' choice to head the church in DC
Briefly

Pope Francis has appointed Cardinal Robert McElroy, a critic of Trump's immigration policy, as head of the Catholic Archdiocese of Washington, raising concerns about church-administration interaction with the new administration.
Cardinals historically influence public opinion and engage in secular politics, which continues today as their role has expanded since the legalization of Christianity by Emperor Constantine, shaping the church's secular responsibilities.
The evolution of the cardinal's role over centuries reflects a shift in the church's authority, especially after ecumenical councils, moving beyond purely spiritual guidance to encompass civil administration.
As the church gained secular power, bishops became increasingly involved in governance, blending spirituality with authority, emphasizing the political weight cardinals carry in today's society.
Read at The Conversation
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