The Pope appointed a secret Cardinal a few years ago, using a tradition called "in pectoris," or close to the breast. In the past, these secret appointments have been made to protect the lives of the recipients -- in totalitarian regimes, say China, North Korea.
Would anyone familiar with the tradition care to offer their wisdom? Is he now officially a cardinal? Why no announcement? Would he be a member of the Conclave to elect the new Pope?
[UPDATE http://www.sgvtribune.com/Stories/0,1413,205~24512~2798597,00.html]