Cardinal Protase Rugambwa has called on Tanzanians to be ready to cultivate and uphold a culture of love, solidarity, and cooperation with people from other nationalities as part of the synodal process in building the Church.

Cardinal Rugambwa made these remarks in Rome, Italy, shortly after being installed as a Cardinal by Pope Francis at St. Peter’s Basilica in Vatican City.

As one of the newly appointed Cardinals, Cardinal Rugambwa emphasised that this is an invitation to continue learning how to build unity, participation, and the mission of the Church so that all people can enjoy life and fully engage in building the Kingdom of God here on Earth. He also warmly invited Tanzania, saying, “Tanzania, shine bright! You are all welcome!”

Following the installation ceremony of the new Cardinals, the Tanzanian community residing in Italy held a reception to welcome Cardinal Protase Rugambwa, the senior archbishop of the Archdiocese of Tabora.

In his address, Cardinal Rugambwa expressed his gratitude to all those who had the opportunity to join in congratulating and wishing him well in his life and ministry. He acknowledged their support since the day Pope Francis announced the appointment of twenty-one new Cardinals, stating that they have been a great source of spiritual, physical, and moral support to him.