The Latest Updates from the Council of Cardinals
Exciting discussions took place at the December session of the Council of Cardinals (C9), held on 2nd and 3rd December at the Casa Santa Marta in the presence of Pope Francis. The Council delved into various current issues concerning the Church and the world, echoing the recent Synod discussions. It was a time to reflect on the global reality of conflict and crisis, sharing concerns and hopes among the Cardinals representing different countries.
Vatican News
Topics ranging from collegiality in the Church, the role of women, the recent Synod, to the implementation of the Apostolic Constitution Praedicate Evangelium in diocesan Curias and the role of nuncios were explored during the engaging sessions of the Council of Cardinals. This working group, composed of nine cardinals, assists and advises Pope Francis on various matters.
Collegiality in the Church
The December session marked the final gathering for the year 2024, following previous meetings in February, April, and June. The Cardinals, the Pope, and the Secretary convened at the Casa Santa Marta to discuss a range of topics. Cardinal Marcello Semeraro kicked off the discussions by shedding light on collegiality in the Church and the relationship between particular churches and ecclesial assemblies, followed by a reflection on the recently concluded Synod.
The Role of Women and Service of Nuncios
Further discussions ensued on the role of women in the Church, aiming to consolidate the issues raised in previous Council sessions. The principles and criteria of the Apostolic Constitution Praedicate Evangelium in diocesan Curias were also examined, alongside a discussion on ‘The role of Papal Representatives in a synodal missionary perspective’, led by Cardinal Oswald Gracias, Archbishop of Bombay.
Reflecting on the Church and the World
As always, the Council provided a platform for a comprehensive reflection on the Church and the world, allowing Cardinals to share their concerns and hopes amidst the current global conditions of conflict and crisis.
Mark your calendars for the next session of the Council of Cardinals in April 2025, where more insightful discussions are sure to take place.
