Notes on "A Bloke Called Kevin from Dublin: Irish-American Cardinal Who Will Run Papal Conclave"

Key Person: Cardinal Kevin Farrell

• Background: Irish-American, originally from Dublin.
  • Born in 1947 to Edward and Molly Farrell.
  • From a working-class background in Drimnagh, Dublin.
  • Altar boy from an Irish republican family.
  • Education: Studied theology in Salamanca, Spain, and the Pontifical Gregorian University in Rome.
  • Became a U.S. citizen and served as university chaplain in Mexico and in the Washington, D.C. archdiocese.

Ecclesiastical Career

• Current Role: Camerlengo for the Vatican.
  • Appointed by Pope Francis.
  • Responsible for organizing the conclave after Pope Francis' death.
  • Tasked with temporarily running the Holy See and destroying Pope's papal ring.
• Past Roles:
  • Bishop of Dallas in 2007.
  • Various roles in the Vatican under Pope Francis.

Responsibilities and Influence

• Organizational Roles: Manages Vatican investments and the Dicastery for the Laity, the Family, and Life.
  • Promotes involvement of younger people in leadership roles within the Church.
  • Focus on social justice and moderation on doctrinal issues.
  • Known for his warmth but criticized for stances on same-sex marriage and abortion.

Impact on the Catholic Church

• Role in the Conclave:
  • Expected to lead the procession moving Pope's body to St. Peter's Basilica.
  • Will organize the funeral attended by various heads of state.
  • Conclave to select new Pope to start in early May.
• Historical Context: Only twice in history has a camerlengo become Pope.

Criticism and Controversy

• Same-Sex Marriage and Abortion Rights:
  • Criticized by liberals for his conservative views.
  • Barred Ireland's former president from speaking at a Vatican conference.

Notable Quotes and Anecdotes

• Joke with Pope Francis about outliving him before taking on the role of camerlengo.
• Childhood friend noted Farrell was "very, very bright" and not sporty.
• Expressed shock over allegations against Cardinal Theodore McCarrick, whom he served under.

Cultural and Political Connections

• Maintains connections to Irish heritage and republican roots.
• Ambivalent view due to his conservative doctrinal stances and administrative roles.

This summary provides an overview of the key points related to Cardinal Kevin Farrell's role in the Vatican, his background, and the responsibilities he holds following the death of Pope Francis.