General Congregations

The Latest

Cardinals gather for the the seventh Novendiales Mass for Pope Francis on May 2, 2025, in St. Peter’s Basilica at the Vatican.

These are the challenges identified by the cardinals ahead of the conclave

May 6, 2025

By Courtney Mares

Over the course of 12 general congregations before the conclave, the cardinals discussed key challenges facing the Church. Read more

Cardinals gather for the fifth general congregation on April 28, 2025, at the Vatican.

Cardinals discuss Church’s future challenges as Sistine Chapel preparations begin

Apr 28, 2025

By AC Wimmer

During the meeting, approximately 20 cardinals delivered addresses on “themes of particular relevance for the future of the Church,” according... Read more

Cardinals in Rome.

Cardinals converge in Rome as second general congregation gathers 103 prelates

Apr 24, 2025

By Martin Bürger

The second general congregation of cardinals saw attendance nearly double to 103 prelates as they finalize preparations for Pope Francis’... Read more

Cardinal O'Malley speaks with CNA during a March 4, 2013 interview at the Pontifical North American College in Rome.

Cardinal O'Malley lists sex abuse, Curia reform as priorities

Mar 4, 2013

Cardinal Sean P. O’Malley listed clerical sex abuse, reforming the Church’s administration and Christian persecution as some of the issues... Read more

Msgr. Jose Maria Gil Tamayo, Fr. Federico Lombardi, and Fr. Thomas Rosica speak to the press on Feb. 26, 2013.

Cardinals begin pre-conclave meetings

Mar 4, 2013

The cardinals of the Catholic Church gathered for their first general meeting this morning to take an oath of secrecy,... Read more

Cardinals participate in the Nov. 2012 consistory in St. Peter's Basilica.

Old establishment cardinals hope for quick conclave

Mar 4, 2013

By Andrea Gagliarducci

While the cardinals created by Benedict XVI arrive in Rome and get acquainted with the pre-conclave operations, cardinals from the... Read more