No, usually they’re in choir dress because they would outrank the bishops and thus would have to be principal celebrant if they concelebrated.In every video I’ve seen of a bishop’s consecration, there has been a cardinal present in choir dress, who does not concelebrate, but simply sits and watches while sitting in the sanctuary. Is this a requirement or something? Perhaps a prince of the Church to witness on the behalf of the Pope?
No, a cardinal does not need to be present. I think it’s probably coincidence. You’ll see it at most, if not, all episcopal consecrations in England and Wales. There’s one cardinal in England and Wales. He’s the Archbishop Emeritus of Westminster. At episcopal consecrations in England and Wales the entire hierarchy usually attend, including His Eminence. He is always present in choir dress; never vestments. But, his presence isn’t a necessity.In every video I’ve seen of a bishop’s consecration, there has been a cardinal present in choir dress, who does not concelebrate, but simply sits and watches while sitting in the sanctuary. Is this a requirement or something? Perhaps a prince of the Church to witness on the behalf of the Pope?
If my memory serves me well I think the rite calls for a deacon to read the apostolic letter. However, in England and Wales it’s usually read by the Apostolic Nuncio.There should be a prelate of some kind reading the apostolic letter …