Pope Francis has chosen 21 new cardinals in a move that once again shows his determination to reshape the group of churchmen who will elect his successor.

The new cardinals will get their red hats at a ceremony, known as a consistory, on Dec. 8, an important feast day on its own that officially kicks off the Christmas season in Rome.

Pope Francis names 21 new cardinals, significantly increasing the number who will one day elect his successor.

Since his election in 2013, Pope Francis has created 142 cardinals from 70 countries at nine consistories. Pope Francis announced on Sunday that he will create 21 new cardinals, including the archbishops of Tehran,

Pope Francis has named 21 new cardinals, significantly increasing the size of the College of Cardinals and further cementing his mark on the group of