𝐐𝟑𝟕𝟕 - 𝐈𝐬 𝐈𝐭 𝐓𝐨𝐨 𝐄𝐚𝐫𝐥𝐲 𝐓𝐨 𝐓𝐞𝐥𝐥 𝐭𝐡𝐞 𝐃𝐢𝐫𝐞𝐜𝐭𝐢𝐨𝐧 𝐨𝐟 𝐏𝐨𝐩𝐞 𝐋𝐞𝐨

Yes, I am convinced and in my opinion, this is true that one of the main tasks of the Pope, as the successor of Peter, is to provide the Church with worthy men, men who are completely trustworthy in their fidelity to the integrity of the Catholic faith, and men of God, formed with a deep Catholic and apostolic spirit.

Otherwise, if he neglects attention and care in the selection of candidates, it is as if he is allowing wolves to enter the flock wolves who will cause great harm to the sheep. And the Pope is the chief pastor. By appointing bishops who promote confusion, ambiguity, or even known errors who are known before their appointment to support a liberal or worldly agenda he endangers the flock.

To appoint such candidates despite prior knowledge of their positions, or to be careless in selecting men without regard for the integrity of doctrine and personal piety, is a grave matter. Of course, a bishop must also be prudent and possess sound judgment. But these characteristics fidelity, piety, orthodoxy are so essential that the Pope cannot simply rely on his collaborators. He must take time, and also consult with other trustworthy persons in the selection of episcopal candidates.

And this applies also, of course, to the cardinalate. As the chief pastor of the entire flock, the Pope, by appointing dubious, ambiguous, or openly heterodox candidates, is effectively opening the door for wolves to enter the fold.

This is a serious responsibility. And I believe that God will ask each Pope, personally, to give an account for his appointments. And that is no small matter.