Pope Leo XIV Calls for Hope, Synodality and Peace at Close of Extraordinary Consistory

Vatican City, June 28, 2026: Pope Leo XIV concluded the Extraordinary Consistory on 27 June by urging the Church to strengthen synodality, promote peace, and respond to the world's growing crisis of broken relationships with hope rooted in Christ.

Speaking at the Vatican's New Synod Hall, the Pope first expressed solidarity with the people of Venezuela following the recent devastating earthquake, assuring prayers for the victims, their families, and rescue workers while calling for continued international support.

Reflecting on the two-day gathering, Pope Leo thanked the cardinals for their openness, fraternity and ecclesial spirit. He described the meeting as a genuine experience of communion, where cardinals from diverse Churches and cultures discerned together how best to serve the Gospel.

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The Pope stressed that synodality is not merely an organisational process but a way of being Church. Rather than focusing on who holds authority, he said the Church must work together to safeguard the mission entrusted by Christ. He encouraged the cardinals to continue implementing the synodal process in their local Churches.

Addressing global challenges, Pope Leo said wars, poverty, injustice and violence reflect a deeper crisis of loneliness, fractured relationships and loss of hope. He highlighted the struggles of young people searching for meaning, including the growing concern over suicide, calling it one of the deepest wounds of the present age.

The Pope also reaffirmed the family's role as a school of relationships, solidarity and hope. He announced that leaders of the Eastern Churches, presidents of episcopal conferences and families will gather in October to evaluate the reception of Amoris Laetitia.

Focusing on peace, Pope Leo warned that war stems from a culture of power that affects politics, economics, technology, religion and human relationships. He called for a renewed culture of dialogue, cooperation and multilateralism while encouraging greater lay participation in public life guided by the Church's social teaching. He also reaffirmed non-violence as an authentic Gospel response to conflict.

The Pope emphasised that the Church's renewal depends primarily on faithful witness rather than structural reform. He also announced his intention to make the gathering of cardinals an annual event beginning next year.

Concluding the Consistory, Pope Leo appealed for reconciliation and peace, urging the Church to help the world recognise the paths God continues to open for unity and hope.

Courtesy: Vatican News