Oh Father Dave, crow is mighty tasty…but, you may (or may not) want to take another bite, since the Cardinal Deacons are all ordained as bishops EXCEPT in the case of theologians and such who are over 80, who have the option to decline the ordination. I don’t have the book of canon law in front of me but it is part of the honor that anyone named to any order of cardinal is ordained a bishop as well. The Cardinal deacons do, as you noted, serve in curial positions, though cardinal priests may also serve on the curia if they had already been one due to their function as a diocesan ordinary. Finally, just for the truly arcane trivia buffs, cardinal deacons can petition the Holy Father to be elevated to Cardinal priest after so many years (10?) in the lower order. Cardinal Arinze did such and was elevated to Cardinal priest. I think the main difference is he got to sit a row closer to the front because I can’t see any other benefit, but, what do I know? Anyway, don’t want to come across as a smart ass, just thought this would amuse you. I really, REALLY enjoy your show and your podcast even though I am out of your demographic (56 y/o). Blessings to you and all who work with you.

Mark