Pope Leo XIV has called upon cardinals from around the world to convene for two days of discussions aimed at assisting him in the governance of the Catholic Church. The meetings, scheduled for January 7-8, 2025, will take place at the Vatican, immediately following the conclusion of the significant 2025 Holy Year on January 6. This gathering marks a pivotal moment in Leo’s papacy as he seeks to establish his leadership following his election on May 8, 2024 as the first American pope.
This upcoming consistory represents a shift in governance styles compared to that of his predecessor, Pope Francis. The former pontiff often avoided traditional consistories, opting instead to rely on a select group of eight or nine advisers for guidance on key decisions. In contrast, Pope Leo XIV’s decision to summon all cardinals signals a more inclusive approach to leadership, emphasizing collaborative discernment and consultation.
The Vatican’s announcement highlighted that this consistory aims to “foster common discernment and offer support and advice to the Holy Father in the exercise of his high and grave responsibility in the government of the universal Church.” Cardinal meetings often focus on significant church issues, and while this will not involve the formal installation of new cardinals, it will provide a platform for discussing the direction of the Church under Leo’s leadership.
Since assuming the papacy, Pope Leo XIV has dedicated much of his time to fulfilling obligations related to the Holy Year. This includes meeting with various pilgrimage groups and presiding over special Jubilee audiences and Masses. The January gathering will be the first significant opportunity for him to outline his own agenda, free from the immediate responsibilities of his predecessor.
As the Catholic Church prepares for this important assembly, many will be watching closely to see how Pope Leo XIV navigates the complexities of church governance and what initiatives he may prioritize moving forward. The global Catholic community expects that this meeting will set the tone for his papacy and influence the Church’s future direction in an ever-evolving world.
