Religion: Three in Pectore

Gathered in secret consistory last week to give formal approval to seven newly designated cardinals (TIME, March 14), the princes of the Roman Catholic Church listened as Pope John XXIII intoned the seven names. The list read, they rose and lifted their red hats—signifying approval —as the Pope put the traditional question, "Quid vobis videtur?" (What is your opinion?). Then came the surprise.

"Beyond those already listed," said John, "we have nominated as members of the Sacred College three other illustrious personages whose names we reserve to ourselves in pectore."

Not since 1933 had new...