VATICAN CITY — Media coverage throughout the week of the Feb. 21 consistory was dominated by speculation that this was a “dress rehearsal” for the next conclave. But the cardinals themselves gave no indication that they thought there would be a need to elect a new Pope soon.

Several observers argued that because John Paul amended his own rules to enlarge the number of possible electors from 120 to 135, he was taking advantage of his “last chance” to influence his succession.

The consistory marked the induction of the largest group of cardinals ever named, bringing total membership in the college of cardinals to 183. Of these, 135 are below age 80 and therefore eligible to vote in a papal conclave. All but 10 of those who are eligible to vote in the conclave have been appointed by John Paul II.

Most of the new cardinals observed the unwritten rule of not commenting on such matters — despite repeated invitations from the press to do so. The most quoted response of the week came from Washington's Cardinal McCarrick.

“I don't expect to vote in a conclave,” said the 70-year-old cardinal, who has nine-and-half years before he turns 80. “I think this Holy Father is good for nine-and-a-half years. I think he is frail with regard to walking, but I think he is a very healthy, strong man. His mind is fine.”

For his part, Cardinal Edward Egan of New York recalled the story of a lady who wished Pope Leo XIII several more good years on the occasion of his 80th birthday. “Don't put a limit on Providence,” replied Leo, who lived until 93.

But the most direct comments were delivered by Cardinal Giovanni Battista Re, prefect of the Congregation of Bishops, who addressed the Holy Father during the consistory on behalf of all the cardinals.

“The witness which Your Holiness has given during the course of the Holy Year just concluded is an auspicious sign that the Lord wishes you to guide the Church for a long time,” said Re, taking the unusual step of commenting on the Pope's health during a public ceremony.

“The People of God still need the example of Your Holiness' dedication, even as your physical powers diminish, because at the same time, there is an increase in the sign of your paternity, and in the witness of your prayer and suffering for the good of the Church. This highlights that, while it is important to do, it is more important to be; and that, in the end, it is Christ who guides his Church.”