Vatican City: Pope Leo XIV will convene his first Extraordinary Consistory of Cardinals on January 7 and 8, 2026, marking a significant moment of prayer, reflection and shared responsibility in the life of the Catholic Church.
Details released by the Holy See Press Office said the two day gathering will take place at the Vatican and will be marked by moments of communion and fraternity. The meeting will also include time set aside for reflection, sharing and prayer among the Pope and the Cardinals.
The Vatican said the Consistory is meant to support Pope through the counsel and discernment of the Cardinals as he carries out his responsibility of governing the universal Church. The meeting seeks to strengthen unity between the Bishop of Rome and the Cardinals, who are called to work closely with him for the good of the global Church.
The Consistory will be held a day after Pope Leo XIV closes the Holy Door of Saint Peter’s Basilica on January 6, which is celebrated as the Solemnity of the Epiphany of the Lord.
A Consistory of Cardinals is a formal meeting of the College of Cardinals. The term comes from a Latin word meaning to stand together. There are two kinds of consistories. Ordinary consistories are mostly ceremonial and usually attended by Cardinals who live in Rome. Extraordinary consistories bring together Cardinals from around the world who are able to travel, allowing Pope to consult the entire College on important issues affecting the life and mission of the Church.
This will be the first such gathering under Pope Leo XIV and is seen as an important step in shaping his leadership and pastoral direction for the Church.