The first day of the Extraordinary Consistory convened by Pope Leo XIV concluded with a clear decision by the College of Cardinals to focus their shared reflection on synodality and the missionary task of the Church. Around 170 Cardinals from across the world took part in the gathering, the first of this pontificate, and by a strong majority chose these two themes as the most urgent for the present moment. The choice emerged after prayer, discussion, and consultation, with the Pope encouraging a process centered on listening rather than producing documents. The themes were selected from a broader list that also included the liturgy and the reform of the Roman Curia, signaling a desire to prioritize how the Church walks together and proclaims the Gospel in today’s world. Vatican officials noted that the selected topics do not exclude others but express a perceived pastoral urgency within the global Church.
Throughout the day, the Consistory unfolded according to a synodal method that mirrored the very theme under discussion. Cardinals were seated at round tables and divided into language based groups, creating space for dialogue, attentive listening, and concise contributions. Each intervention was intentionally brief, allowing many voices to be heard and reinforcing a spirit of shared responsibility. The sessions opened with prayer and reflection on Scripture, followed by moments of meditation that set a spiritual tone for the discussions. Pope Leo emphasized that synodality is not only a topic to be examined but a style to be practiced, reminding the Cardinals that this path is central to the Church’s life in the modern era. By engaging in this method, the gathering sought to model collegiality as a lived experience rather than a theoretical concept.
The afternoon was dedicated to group work and the sharing of insights gathered during discussions. Representatives from several groups presented the reasoning behind the choice of synodality and mission, while others confirmed their selections through brief reports. The Pope listened attentively to these summaries, reinforcing his earlier invitation to continue a conversation rather than reach predetermined conclusions. He expressed his reliance on the Cardinals, telling them he needs to be able to count on their counsel and discernment as he carries out his ministry. The emphasis on evangelization was framed not as a program but as a renewed attentiveness to the Church’s calling to bring the Gospel to contemporary society with credibility and unity.
In his closing remarks, Pope Leo returned to the importance of the journey itself, reminding the Cardinals that how they work together is as significant as the themes they address. He encouraged fraternity, sincerity, and courage in facing the challenges before the Church, noting that unity strengthens witness while division weakens it. Reflections during the day also acknowledged the broader global context marked by conflict, inequality, and rapid change, underscoring the need for discernment rooted in faith and trust. The Consistory will continue with further discussion and prayer, beginning with Mass in St Peter’s Basilica. No final document is expected, as the gathering is intended to cultivate a synodal spirit that will guide future decisions and pastoral priorities.
