It's likely that Pope Francis will visit T&T in two years.Archbishop Joseph Harris said he hoped that by May 2015 the Pope will be able to come here."I am hoping," Harris said.At a press conference at Archbishop House, Maraval Road yesterday, Harris said President Anthony Carmona extended an invitation to the Pope during his visit at the Vatican in Rome, Italy.Carmona and his family left T&T on July 4 and met with the Pope on July 6.
Asked if the Pope will visit for the opening of the Cathedral, Harris replied, "The Pope's schedule is fixed a year and a half in advance."I know that the President invited him, I know that, but the Pope couldn't give him an answer immediately."I would hope that by May 2015 or sometime around there, that the Pope will be able to come."
However, Harris said in December Cardinal Fernando Feloni, Prefect of the Congregation for the Evangelisation of People is expected to visit. The press conference was called to announce the appointment of Msgr Robert Llanos as Auxiliary Bishop.Llanos, 55 is the vicar general of the Archdiocese of Port-of-Spain.The Pope made the announcement at 6 am yesterday.
Harris said, "I have worked very closely with him since I assumed the position of Archbishop."I do believe that Rome has made a good choice."Harris said Llanos had no right of succession as Auxiliary Bishop. Llanos will assist with administrative duties.The Archdiocese has 19 departments and 62 parishes which needed "episcopal oversight."Harris said the appointment had nothing to do with his health.
"My health is quite good."I have gone through tests and I am in good health. I have to lose a bit of weight and I am looking at that."Llanos said he was honoured, humbled and felt truly blessed."I am happy to know that his Grace trusts me to share this responsibility in the Archdiocese to minister to the people of God."He said he was a born and bred Trini and grew up in Newtown. He is expected to be ordained in September at a venue yet to be determined.