Pope Leo XIV Calls on Cardinals for Collaborative Governance

In a significant step toward an inclusive leadership approach, Pope Leo XIV called upon cardinals from across the globe to gather at the Vatican for a special assembly known as an 'extraordinary consistory.' The aim of this meeting was to tap into the collective wisdom of Catholic Church leaders to navigate the future.

The U.S.-born leader of the Catholic Church, Leo, who hails from Chicago, opened the assembly with a declaration of his intent to listen to the cardinals' input. He emphasized that the time spent together would help shape the future direction of the Church.

From the 245 cardinals, 170 'princes of the Church' made their way to Vatican City to engage in the consultative process.

Prioritizing the Church's Mission and Synodality

During the initial discussions, Leo asked the cardinals to focus on two of four possible topics: the Church's missionary outlook, further reform within the Vatican, synodality, and liturgy. Most cardinals opted to concentrate on missionary efforts and synodality, aiming to make the Church more attuned to its congregants' needs.

Intriguingly, the cardinals chose to sidestep the topic of liturgy, thereby not engaging with the polarizing issue of the traditional Latin Mass—a ceremonial style that many associate with outdated practices but which has ardent defenders.

A New Chapter for the Catholic Church

Initiating the consistory on such themes indicates Pope Leo's dedication to involving a broad spectrum of Church leadership in decision-making, a departure from his predecessor, Pope Francis, who primarily consulted a close circle of advisors. This shift is seen as a clear signal of a more participative leadership style.

By convening this gathering shortly after taking office, Leo signals a new phase in his papal leadership, reaffirming the influence of the Second Vatican Council—an event that redefined the Church's place in the modern world—as central to his vision.

The Second Vatican Council: Guiding the Modern Church

Recognizing the transformative outcomes of Vatican II, Pope Leo sees its focus on vernacular languages for the Mass, simplified rituals, and increased involvement of laypeople as vital elements in bridging the Church with contemporary realities.