July 25, 2026

Cardinals once so unfamiliar they arrived at conclave with name badges now have their meetings back under Pope Leo XIV — but not the way many wanted. After years of sparse gatherings under Francis, Leo has revived consistories as an annual fixture, yet he is imposing the synod-style small-group format over the old free-for-all plenary sessions. Supporters say the Church needs more contact; critics warn the new setup mutes real debate and buries hard questions just as the hierarchy tries to reset after a fractured papacy.

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