Cardinal Rainer Maria Woelki, Archbishop of Cologne, has been appointed by Pope Leo XIV as a new member of the Vatican dicastery for the Causes of Saints. This was confirmed this Saturday by the Holy See Press Office. With this appointment, the German cardinal expands his presence in key bodies of the Roman Curia.
Until now, Woelki was already a voting member in three other dicasteries: that of the Clergy, that of Divine Worship, and that of the Promotion of Christian Unity (the known ministry for ecumenism). Additionally, he is part of the Administration of the Patrimony of the Apostolic See (APSA), one of the most influential institutions in the economic management of the Vatican.
An essential body in the canonization process
The Vatican dicasteries are composed of a stable team and a group of approximately thirty members, among whom there are usually about ten cardinals. These members meet periodically in Rome to study causes, issue opinions, and make decisions relevant to the life of the universal Church.
With his incorporation into the dicastery for the Causes of Saints, Woelki will directly participate in the review of files that can lead to the official recognition of the holiness of faithful from all over the world. It is a mission of great doctrinal, pastoral, and spiritual importance for the Church.