By Kevin Lavery, KWMU
St. Louis – Cardinal-elect Justin Rigali says he's grateful for those who praised his work in St. Louis, and welcomes criticism from his opponents.
Pope John Paul II named Rigali one of 31 new cardinals Sunday, a week before he is to be installed as the new archbishop of Philadelphia.
Many Catholics respected Rigali's efforts to improve education, but critics say he offered no assistance to victims of clergy sexual abuse.
Rigali says those negative comments can be traced back to only a few people.
"And sometimes, one person becomes the spokesperson gratuitously for many other people," Rigali said. "This is a free country, everybody has his or her opinion, and whoever wants an opinion about me, please be free to have one."
Rigali will be elevated to the office of cardinal October 21.