Pope Leo XIV's Upcoming Extraordinary Consistory: A Turning Point for the Church

Pope Leo XIV is set to convene an extraordinary consistory of cardinals on January 7 and 8, 2026, marking a significant moment as it will be the first gathering of the entire College of Cardinals since his election. This meeting, confirmed by the Holy See Press Office on December 20, 2025, is designed to address critical issues facing the Church and foster unity among the cardinals. Historically, consistories serve as a platform for the Pope to consult with his closest collaborators on matters of doctrine and governance.

What to expect from the extraordinary consistoryThe evolution of the consistories since the Second Vatican Council – INFOVATICANAFor Cardinals in Consistory This Week: Mending Wall

The extraordinary consistory will focus on three main themes: the role of the College of Cardinals in Pope Leo's governance, synodality, and what has been termed "liturgical peace." The Pope has encouraged cardinals to prepare for discussions by revisiting his apostolic exhortation, *Evangelii gaudium*, and the apostolic constitution, *Praedicate evangelium*, which reformed the Roman Curia in 2022. The gathering aims to create a space for reflection, sharing, and prayer, ultimately supporting the Pope in his governance of the universal Church.

What to expect from the extraordinary consistoryThe evolution of the consistories since the Second Vatican Council – INFOVATICANAFor Cardinals in Consistory This Week: Mending Wall

This consistory is particularly noteworthy as it follows a period of limited collegial consultation under Pope Francis, who convened only one extraordinary consistory during his twelve-year pontificate. The upcoming meeting is expected to provide a practical and symbolic moment of unity, as many cardinals have not had the opportunity to meet since the conclave that elected Leo XIV. The absence of a stated motivation for the consistory at its announcement raised questions, but subsequent communications have clarified its agenda.

What to expect from the extraordinary consistoryThe evolution of the consistories since the Second Vatican Council – INFOVATICANAFor Cardinals in Consistory This Week: Mending Wall

Some observers have expressed skepticism regarding the effectiveness of the consistory in addressing internal divisions within the Church. Critics highlight that previous consistories under Pope Francis were often criticized for lacking genuine debate and failing to channel internal polarization. The upcoming meeting will be scrutinized as a test of Leo XIV's ability to navigate these complexities and foster dialogue among diverse perspectives within the College of Cardinals.

The evolution of the consistories since the Second Vatican Council – INFOVATICANA

The Holy See Press Office has emphasized that the consistory is not merely procedural but represents a significant institutional act aimed at uniting a geographically and ideologically diverse College. The meeting is framed as a continuation of the Church's mission, with a focus on maintaining continuity with tradition while addressing contemporary challenges.

What to expect from the extraordinary consistory

• “will undoubtedly give the cardinals, and the world, key insight into the mind and priorities of the new pope” — Elise Ann Allen, Crux

What to expect from the extraordinary consistory

The extraordinary consistory of January 2026 presents a pivotal opportunity for Pope Leo XIV to engage with the College of Cardinals on pressing issues facing the Church. As the meeting approaches, it will be closely monitored for its potential to foster unity and address the internal tensions that have characterized recent years. The success of this consistory may significantly influence the direction of the Church in the coming decade.

The evolution of the consistories since the Second Vatican Council – INFOVATICANA