Deaths on April 17

Francis George, American cardinal (b. 1937)

Francis Eugene George (January 16, 1937 – April 17, 2015) was a highly influential American cardinal of the Roman Catholic Church, whose dedicated service spanned decades and touched various levels of the ecclesiastical hierarchy. Renowned for his intellectual rigor and pastoral commitment, Cardinal George left an indelible mark on the Church in the United States, particularly during his significant tenure as the eighth Archbishop of Chicago.

An Expanding Ecclesiastical Journey

Before his prominent role in Chicago, Cardinal George’s journey through the Church took him to several important posts. A member of the Missionary Oblates of Mary Immaculate, a religious congregation focused on missionary work, he began his episcopal service as the Bishop of Yakima, Washington, from 1990 to 1996. This period allowed him to gain valuable experience in diocesan administration and pastoral care in a diverse region. His leadership then saw him briefly serve as the Archbishop of Portland, Oregon, from 1996 to 1997, before he was called to a much larger stage.

Archbishop of Chicago: A Defining Role

In 1997, Francis George was appointed the eighth Archbishop of Chicago, one of the largest and most influential Catholic archdioceses in the United States. His seventeen-year tenure in this critical role (1997–2014) was marked by significant challenges and achievements. The Archdiocese of Chicago, a vibrant mosaic of cultures and communities, required a leader with both deep theological insight and robust administrative skills, qualities Cardinal George demonstrably possessed. He navigated complex issues ranging from diocesan restructuring to fostering interfaith dialogue, always with a clear vision for the Church's mission.

Elevation to the College of Cardinals

A pivotal moment in his distinguished career came in 1998 when Pope John Paul II elevated him to the College of Cardinals. This appointment recognized his profound contributions and entrusted him with the grave responsibility of advising the Pope and participating in papal elections. As an American cardinal, George became a significant voice within the global Church, bringing a unique perspective from the American context to the Vatican and international discussions.

National Leadership and Legacy

Beyond his diocesan responsibilities, Cardinal George also played a crucial role on the national stage as president of the United States Conference of Catholic Bishops (USCCB) from 2007 to 2010. In this capacity, he served as a spokesperson and advocate for the Catholic Church in America, addressing pressing moral, social, and political issues of the day. His leadership during this period further solidified his reputation as a thoughtful and articulate defender of Catholic teaching and a compassionate shepherd for the faithful.

Transition and Retirement

Cardinal George's tenure as Archbishop of Chicago concluded in a somewhat unusual and noteworthy way. On September 20, 2014, Pope Francis accepted his resignation, as canon law requires bishops to offer their resignation at age 75. Bishop Blase J. Cupich of Spokane, Washington, was appointed to succeed him. However, in a unique arrangement, Cardinal George was permitted to remain as the incumbent archbishop until Archbishop Cupich's official installation on November 18, 2014. This allowed for a smooth transition of leadership and reflected the deep respect for Cardinal George's service.

Battle with Illness and Passing

Throughout much of his later service, Cardinal George bravely battled cancer. He was initially diagnosed with the disease in 2006, and despite periods of remission and various treatments, it returned in subsequent years. He faced his illness with characteristic grace and fortitude, continuing his duties as long as his health permitted. Cardinal Francis George passed away from the disease on April 17, 2015, leaving behind a legacy of dedicated service, intellectual leadership, and profound faith.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)

What is a Cardinal and what are their duties?

A Cardinal is a senior ecclesiastical official of the Roman Catholic Church, usually a bishop, appointed by the Pope. Their primary duties include advising the Pope on matters of the Church and, if under the age of 80, participating in a papal conclave to elect a new Pope when the papacy becomes vacant. They often lead major archdioceses or hold significant positions within the Roman Curia, the administrative apparatus of the Holy See.

What is the significance of the Archdiocese of Chicago in the Catholic Church?

The Archdiocese of Chicago is one of the largest and most influential Catholic archdioceses in the United States, serving millions of Catholics across Cook and Lake Counties in Illinois. Historically, it has been a center for Catholic social action, education, and ministry, often setting trends for the wider American Church. Its archbishops are typically prominent figures within the US Conference of Catholic Bishops and hold considerable moral authority.

What is the United States Conference of Catholic Bishops (USCCB)?

The USCCB is an assembly of the Catholic hierarchy of the United States and the U.S. Virgin Islands. It is responsible for leading the Church's public policy efforts, fostering communion, and providing guidance on moral, doctrinal, and pastoral issues. The president of the USCCB, a role held by Cardinal George, serves as the public face and chief spokesperson for the conference on these matters.

Why was Cardinal George's resignation considered unusual?

While bishops are typically required to submit their resignation at age 75, the "unusual circumstance" in Cardinal George's case referred to his being permitted to remain as the incumbent archbishop for nearly two months after his resignation was accepted and his successor, Bishop Blase J. Cupich, had been appointed. This brief overlap ensured a smooth leadership transition, especially considering the archdiocese's size and complexity, and honored Cardinal George's long service.

What religious order did Cardinal George belong to?

Cardinal George was a member of the Missionary Oblates of Mary Immaculate (OMI). This religious congregation of priests and brothers is dedicated to missionary work, serving the poor in various parts of the world, often in challenging or neglected areas. Their charism emphasizes evangelization and being close to the people.