In a shocking turn of events, Archbishop Isao Kikuchi of Tokyo discovered he was to be named Cardinal, one of 21 new appointments by Pope Francis. The announcement caught him off guard, leaving him perplexed and humbled.
Archbishop Kikuchi’s day began like any other, with a 9:00 a.m. car ride to celebrate Mass at the Society of the Divine Word headquarters. Unaware of the monumental news awaiting him, he went about his morning routine.
As he walked through St. Peter’s cloister, a young autograph seeker congratulated him on his cardinal appointment. Archbishop Kikuchi dismissed it as a prank, shrugging it off. However, when Cardinal Rueda of Bogota approached him with similar congratulations, his scepticism began to wane.
Cardinal Rueda showed Archbishop Kikuchi a video of Pope Francis’ announcement, leaving him stunned and confused. “I was surprised… shocked from the bottom of my heart,” he recounted. The weight of his new role as an advisor to the Pope sunk in, and he couldn’t help but see his shortcomings.
Archbishop Kikuchi’s reaction reflects his humble nature. “Being a cardinal is not just an honorary position… I can only see my shortcomings,” he said. His surprise appointment serves as a testament to Pope Francis’ willingness to entrust significant responsibilities to unexpected individuals.
As Cardinal-elect Kikuchi navigates this unexpected journey, he embodies the qualities of a true servant-leader. His humility and willingness to serve will undoubtedly guide him in his new role, inspiring others within the Catholic Church.