Francis George, American cardinal (d. 2015)

Cardinal Francis Eugene George, a distinguished figure in the Roman Catholic Church in the United States, was born on January 16, 1937, and passed away on April 17, 2015. A native Chicagoan, he holds the unique distinction of being the first and only Chicago-born individual to serve as the Archbishop of the Archdiocese of Chicago, an influential ecclesiastical see. His extensive service to the Church spanned several significant roles, culminating in his elevation to the College of Cardinals.

A Path of Service: From Missionary to Metropolitan

Before his prominent tenure in Chicago, Cardinal George's ecclesiastical journey saw him lead two other dioceses. He first served as the Bishop of Yakima, Washington, from 1990 to 1996. Following this, he was appointed Archbishop of Portland, Oregon, a position he held briefly from 1996 to 1997. His appointment as the eighth Archbishop of Chicago in 1997 marked a pivotal moment in his career, placing him at the helm of one of the largest and most historically significant archdioceses in the United States, overseeing a Catholic population of over 2.2 million across Cook and Lake counties.

The Missionary Oblates of Mary Immaculate and the Cardinalate

Cardinal George was a dedicated member of the Missionary Oblates of Mary Immaculate (OMI), a pontifical congregation of religious brothers and priests founded in 1816 by Saint Eugène de Mazenod. The Oblates are renowned for their missionary work, particularly among the poor and most abandoned. His deep spiritual roots within this order undoubtedly shaped his pastoral approach and leadership style. Recognizing his profound contributions and intellectual acumen, Pope John Paul II formally created him a cardinal in the Consistory of February 21, 1998, bestowing upon him the title of Cardinal-Priest of San Bartolomeo all'Isola. This elevation signified his integral role as a papal advisor and a key elector in future papal conclaves.

National Leadership and Influence

Beyond his archdiocesan responsibilities, Cardinal George played a vital role in the broader American Catholic Church. He was elected and served as the President of the United States Conference of Catholic Bishops (USCCB) from 2007 to 2010. The USCCB is an assembly of the hierarchy of the United States and the U.S. Virgin Islands, which acts collectively to address issues of pastoral concern, public policy, and the common good, both nationally and internationally. His leadership during this period was crucial in guiding the American episcopate through various challenges facing the Church.

Resignation, Succession, and Enduring Legacy

Cardinal George's tenure as Archbishop of Chicago concluded on September 20, 2014, when Pope Francis accepted his resignation. This transition was noteworthy due to its unusual circumstances: while the Holy See typically requires bishops to submit their resignation at age 75 (Cardinal George was 77 at the time), his resignation was accepted before his successor was named and installed. During this interim period, he was uniquely permitted to remain as the incumbent Archbishop, continuing to administer the archdiocese until his successor, Bishop Blase J. Cupich of Spokane, Washington, was formally installed on November 18, 2014. Following Bishop Cupich's installation, Cardinal George transitioned to the role of Archbishop Emeritus of Chicago, a title reflecting his continued spiritual authority and a lifetime of service.

Cardinal George faced significant health challenges throughout his later years. He was first diagnosed with urothelial cancer in 2006, which primarily affected his bladder and later recurred as prostate cancer in 2012, eventually spreading to his kidney and liver. Despite these arduous battles, he maintained a profound commitment to his ministry and continued to engage intellectually and pastorally until his passing from the disease on April 17, 2015. His legacy is remembered for his sharp intellect, his deep theological insights, his commitment to Catholic education, and his steadfast leadership during a period of significant change within the Church.

Frequently Asked Questions About Cardinal Francis George

Who was Cardinal Francis George?

Cardinal Francis Eugene George (1937–2015) was a prominent American cardinal of the Roman Catholic Church, best known as the eighth Archbishop of Chicago from 1997 to 2014 and the first native-born Chicagoan to hold this position. He was also a member of the Missionary Oblates of Mary Immaculate.

What was Cardinal George's role in the national Catholic Church?

Beyond his archdiocesan duties, Cardinal George served as the President of the United States Conference of Catholic Bishops (USCCB) from 2007 to 2010, playing a crucial leadership role for the Catholic hierarchy in the United States.

Which other dioceses did Cardinal George lead before Chicago?

Prior to becoming Archbishop of Chicago, he served as the Bishop of Yakima, Washington (1990–1996), and then as Archbishop of Portland, Oregon (1996–1997).

Why was Cardinal George's resignation and succession considered unusual?

It was unusual because Pope Francis accepted his resignation on September 20, 2014, but permitted him to remain as the incumbent Archbishop of Chicago until his successor, Bishop Blase J. Cupich, was installed nearly two months later, on November 18, 2014. Typically, an archbishop retires upon acceptance of resignation and the successor takes office shortly thereafter.

What was the cause of Cardinal George's death?

Cardinal George died on April 17, 2015, from cancer. He had been initially diagnosed with urothelial cancer in 2006, which recurred as prostate cancer in 2012 and later spread to other organs.