June Consistory to Address Just War and Artificial Intelligence

The Catholic Church is gearing up for a significant gathering, as Pope Leo XIV convenes the College of Cardinals for an extraordinary consistory on June 26-27. This meeting will bring together high-ranking officials to discuss key themes, including the international situation, just war, and the synodal process. Cardinal Giovanni Battista Re, dean of the College of Cardinals, outlined these themes in a letter to all cardinals on June 3, emphasizing the need for mutual listening, discernment, and shared exploration.

Key facts about the consistory include four working sessions, each focusing on a specific theme. The first session will be a shared meditation on the international situation, guided by two questions: what sufferings and tensions are affecting local communities, and what signs of hope and reconciliation can be shared. The second and third sessions will delve into the encyclical Magnifica Humanitas, exploring peace as a condition for the universal common good and the concept of just war. The fourth session will update cardinals on the synod's implementation process and feature a period of free dialogue between cardinals and the Holy Father.

The consistory's focus on just war and artificial intelligence reflects the Church's efforts to address pressing global issues. By convening cardinals for a two-day discussion, Pope Leo XIV aims to foster a climate of listening, freedom, and open dialogue. As the Church navigates complex topics like peace, reconciliation, and technological advancements, this gathering will provide a crucial platform for cardinals to share their experiences and advise the Pope.

What to watch next: the consistory's outcome and how the Church will implement its discussions on just war, artificial intelligence, and the synodal process.