The Second Extraordinary Consistory: An Uneasy Prelude
A June gathering of cardinals has been marked by confusion over its agenda, uncertainty about its format, and concerns about communication from the Holy See.
Rome — The second extraordinary consistory of Pope Leo XIV's pontificate, scheduled to begin on June 26, 2026, has generated significant uncertainty among cardinals regarding its topics and format, according to interviews with multiple cardinals. This contrasts sharply with the positive reception of the first consistory held in January.
A Shift in Format
January’s meeting was a success, but it began with apprehension. That consistory used small-group discussions—similar to the synod on synodality's round tables—alongside two plenary sessions. While many cardinals were initially wary, they later found the small groups allowed for deeper, more meaningful conversations.
The June meeting appears to be taking this format further, but with less clarity. The structure remains similar, but the lack of clear direction has left many participants uneasy.
A Confusing Topic Roadmap
The journey from January to June has been a series of miscommunications.
- In January, cardinals believed the two topics not covered—liturgy and curia reform—would be discussed in June.
- In April, Pope Leo asked for reflection on Evangelii gaudium.
- In early June, a letter from Cardinal Dean Giovanni Battista Re announced four themes: the international situation (morning session on June 26), aspects of Pope Leo's encyclical Magnifica humanitas, and an update on the Synod on Synodality implementation.
- This week, the Holy See Press Office released an official schedule that differed from Re's letter. For example, just war theory, which Re said would be discussed in detail, appears only marginally in the final agenda, which instead poses two related questions about conflict and reconciliation.
Communication Breakdown
"One cardinal learned via press which cardinals would give meditations, never receiving the information directly."
Several cardinals have voiced frustration with how information is being shared.
- One cardinal learned via the press which cardinals would give meditations, never receiving the information directly.
- Another noted that curial cardinals without diocesan flocks feel excluded by a guiding question asking about "peoples and ecclesial communities entrusted to your care."
Cardinal Statements on the Confusion
Multiple cardinals expressed uncertainty about what is expected of them.
- One said the consistory feels "organized by an HR department" and too tightly controlled, with specific questions in small groups limiting open discussion.
- Another questioned how to prepare with unclear topics until the week of the meeting.
- Some cardinals questioned their ability to add value on societal issues beyond personal experiences.
Context & Outlook
Pope Leo XIV had announced after the January consistory that he intended to hold an extraordinary consistory each year, a move widely seen as signaling greater collegiality compared to his predecessor's infrequent consultations.
While the second consistory may be affected by organizational difficulties, some cardinals note that similar apprehension existed before the first—which ultimately ended positively. The extent to which this consistory's actual discussions will alleviate or confirm cardinals' concerns remains to be seen.