The eagerly anticipated consistory is scheduled for January 7-8, aligning closely with the conclusion of the 2025 Holy Year celebrations on January 6. This event, occurring every 25 years, is a significant milestone in the Christian faith.

In recent months, much of the focus has been on finalizing the remaining initiatives of Pope Francis’ tenure. Consequently, the upcoming January consistory represents a pivotal moment for Pope Leo, who, since his election on May 8 as the first American pontiff, will now have the opportunity to pursue his own vision for the church.

The decision to convene all cardinals in Rome underscores the importance of this gathering. Unlike his predecessor, Pope Francis, who preferred to consult with a select group of eight or nine trusted cardinal advisers for governance and decision-making, Pope Leo’s approach signals a return to broader inclusion and consultation within the church’s leadership.

It is significant that he has summoned all the world’s cardinals to Rome.

Francis had largely eschewed the consistory tradition as a means of governance. He had instead relied on a small group of eight or nine hand-picked cardinal advisers to help him govern and make key decisions.

The Vatican said that Leo’s first consistory “will be oriented toward fostering common discernment and offering support and advice to the Holy Father in the exercise of his high and grave responsibility in the government of the universal Church.”

Other types of consistories include the formal installation of new cardinals. But no new cardinals will be made at this meeting, which is purely consultative.