Vatican City: Pope Leo XIV has asked the world’s cardinals to walk closely with him as the Church reflects on its mission and future direction, saying he needs their support and shared discernment.
Pope was speaking at the end of the first session of an Extraordinary Consistory held at the Vatican, attended by around 170 cardinals. The meeting took place in the Paul VI Hall and focused on group discussions held in different languages.
In an off the cuff address, Pope Leo thanked the cardinals for choosing synodality and mission in the light of Evangelii gaudium as the main themes for reflection. These were selected by a clear majority from four proposed topics.
He said the two themes could not be separated and reflected the Church’s call to look beyond itself and focus on proclaiming the Gospel.
Pope said the Church does not exist for cardinals, bishops or clergy, but to announce Christ to the world. He added that Evangelii gaudium places Christ at the centre and calls the Church to share the joy of the Gospel with courage and creativity.
Although Pope Leo did not take part in the small group discussions, he listened carefully during the plenary session, where nine table secretaries presented summaries of their work. He noted that members of the Roman Curia are easier to consult, which is why cardinals from outside the Curia played a key role in presenting the discussions.
Pope Leo reassured the cardinals that the other themes proposed, including liturgy and the Apostolic Constitution Praedicate Evangelium, had not been set aside. He said there were still concrete and specific issues that would be addressed in due course.
He also encouraged the cardinals to feel free to speak openly with him and with one another, describing the Consistory as part of an ongoing process of dialogue and discernment.
Reflecting on the spirit of the meeting, Pope said the journey itself was just as important as the final conclusions. He described the gathering as a sign of collegiality and a witness to the Church’s desire to walk together, even when it requires long and demanding travel.
Returning to themes from his Epiphany homily, Pope Leo asked whether there is life in the Church. He said he was convinced that there is, pointing to many encouraging experiences in recent months, while also urging the Church not to become complacent or trapped by fear.
Pope said the Gospel frees believers from fear and opens new paths, calling the Church to be attentive, bold and creative in responding to the challenges of today.
He concluded by saying the Consistory is one of the ways the Church can experience renewal and remain open to the work of the Holy Spirit, adding that it is a joy to be together in the same boat as the Church continues its journey.