The sovereign pontiff summoned all the cardinals on August 29 and 30 to the Vatican. This is the first time since 2014 that such a meeting has taken place. This extraordinary consistory could draw the post-Francois.
With our correspondent in Rome, Eric Senanque
For two days, the pope will meet among the cardinals to discuss the latest Apostolic Constitution, the “general regulations of the Roman Curia”. Coming into force on June 5, it aims to give a more missionary character to the Church of Rome, in closer connection with the local Churches.
The vast majority of these cardinals, who came from the five continents, knew little about the Curia. Among the 226 cardinals, 132 are electors in the event of a conclave, that is to say aged under 80 years.
Some observers see in these two days a prelude to the forthcoming election of a new pope. François’ declining health, just like his words not excluding one day giving up his chargehave indeed revived speculation, even if there is nothing to say today that a new conclave is close.
Beyond the internal and organizational issues of the Church, Pope Francis also wants the cardinals to reflect on the challenges of evangelization in the contemporary world, regardless of the cultural context in which these cardinals live. Two working sessions will be held behind closed doors on Monday and a third on Tuesday.