Pope Leo XIV's Historic 1st Extraordinary Consistory of Cardinals at the Vatican on January 7-8 to Shape the Future of the Catholic Church


Extraordinary Consistory of Cardinals (January 2026)

The Holy See has announced details regarding the first Extraordinary Consistory of Pope Leo XIV. This formal gathering of the global College of Cardinals (245) serves as a critical advisory meeting to support the Pope in the governance of the universal Church. All 245 cardinals in the world are allowed to attend.

Key Logistics

  • Dates: January 7–8, 2026.


  • Location: The Vatican.

  • Context: Takes place immediately following the closing of the Holy Door of St. Peter’s Basilica (January 6).

  • Nature of Meeting: An Extraordinary Consistory, requiring the attendance of all Cardinals worldwide to consult on major issues affecting Church life.

Core Objectives

  • Communion: Strengthening the bond between the Bishop of Rome and the Cardinals.

  • Collaboration: Fostering "mutual interiority" between the universal Church and local dioceses.

  • Support: Providing counsel to the Holy Father on his responsibilities in governing the Church.

Four Major Points of Discussion

Based on a Christmas letter from Pope Leo XIV, the two-day agenda will focus on:

  1. Evangelization: A re-reading of Evangelii Gaudium (2013) to renew the impetus for proclaiming the Gospel.

  2. Curial Reform: In-depth study of Praedicate Evangelium (2022) regarding the reform of the Roman Curia and its relationship with local churches.

  3. Synodality: Exploring synodality as a tool for effective cooperation between the Pope and the College of Cardinals.

  4. Liturgy: A theological and pastoral reflection on "sound tradition" versus "legitimate progress," referencing Sacrosanctum Concilium.

Background and Continuity

Pope Leo XIV has signaled that this Consistory is a continuation of the path set by his predecessors and the Second Vatican Council:

  • Synodal Path: Since his election on May 8, Leo has emphasized his desire to be a "synodal church" that is close to the poor.

  • Legacy: He has described Evangelii Gaudium as a "masterful" outline for the modern Church's direction.

  • Vision: The Pope views synodality as a "prophetic vision" for the future of the faith.

Definition: What is a Consistory?

Derived from the Latin consistere ("stand together"), it is a formal meeting of the College of Cardinals. While Ordinary Consistories are primarily ceremonial and involve Rome-based Cardinals, Extraordinary Consistories are called for serious consultation involving the entire global College.

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