January 6, 2012 - Cardinal Sean's statement on Archbishop Timothy M. Dolan and Archbishop Edwin F. O

“Among the twenty-two Cardinal-designates named today by Pope Benedict VXI, Archbishop Timothy M. Dolan and Archbishop Edwin F. O’Brien will provide the Holy Father valuable guidance and assistance through their long-standing dedication to the work of the Church. 

In his leadership as Archbishop of New York and at the United States Conference of Catholic Bishops, where he serves as President, Cardinal-designate Dolan has always held the good of the Church and her people as the highest priority.  He has been an important advocate for the Church with regard to religious freedom, the protection of life at all stages, and promoting human dignity for all people, especially those in great need.

For many years Cardinal-designate O’Brien led the Archdiocese for the Military Services, USA, providing for the pastoral and spiritual care of the men and women who serve our country in the Armed Forces.  Following his tenure as Archbishop of Baltimore, in 2011 the Holy Father appointed Archbishop O’Brien the Pro-Grand Master of the Equestrian Order of the Holy Sepulchre, recognizing the Archbishop’s international experience and his commitment to peace, social justice and the mission of the Church in the Holy Land.

We join the Catholic community throughout the United States in congratulating Cardinal-designate Dolan and Cardinal-designate O’Brien and assure them of our prayers and best wishes as they prepare for the upcoming consistory.”