In a significant move for his nascent papacy, Pope Leo XIV has called the world's cardinals to the Vatican for a crucial two-day assembly in early January. The gathering is designed to aid the pontiff in governing the global Catholic Church, signalling a fresh approach following the Holy Year celebrations.
A New Chapter After the Jubilee
The Vatican announced on Saturday, 20 December 2025, that the meeting, known as a consistory, will take place on 7-8 January. This timing is pivotal, as it follows directly after the conclusion of the 2025 Holy Year on 6 January. The Jubilee, a major celebration of Christianity occurring once every quarter-century, has dominated the Pope's schedule since his election on 8 May.
Pope Leo, the first American to hold the office, has spent his initial months fulfilling the extensive ceremonial duties of the Holy Year. These have included weekly meetings with pilgrimage groups and presiding over special Jubilee audiences and Masses. Furthermore, a considerable portion of his time has been dedicated to resolving outstanding matters from the lengthy pontificate of his predecessor, Pope Francis.
A Return to Collegial Governance
The January consistory therefore represents a clear turning point. It will be the first major opportunity for Pope Leo to look forward and set the agenda for his own leadership. The decision to summon all cardinals is itself a notable shift in governance style.
Under Pope Francis, the tradition of using full consistories for consultation and decision-making was largely set aside. Instead, Francis relied on a small, hand-picked group of eight or nine cardinal advisers to assist him in governing the universal Church.
The Vatican's statement clarified that this upcoming meeting is purely consultative, with no new cardinals to be created. Its purpose, as outlined, is to "foster common discernment and offer support and advice to the Holy Father in the exercise of his high and grave responsibility."
Setting the Tone for a Pontificate
This assembly is widely viewed as the unofficial start of Pope Leo XIV's substantive pontificate. By convening the College of Cardinals, he is embracing a more collegial model of governance, seeking the collective wisdom of the Church's senior prelates as he navigates the challenges ahead. The world will be watching closely as the cardinals gather in Rome, marking a new chapter for the Vatican under its historic new leader.
