The first Extraordinary Consistory of Pope Leo XIV’s pontificate opened with a profound meditation by Cardinal Timothy Radcliffe, O.P., reflecting on the Gospel passage of Jesus walking on the water (Mark 6:45–52).
Addressing approximately 170 Cardinals gathered in the Synod Hall on the afternoon of January 7, Cardinal Radcliffe challenged them to embrace their role as those called to remain in the “Barque of Peter” amid the tempests of history.
Cardinal Radcliffe said. "This is our first obedience, to be in the barque of Peter, with his successor, as he faces the storms of our times. We cannot remain on the beach saying ‘Myself, I would not go sailing today.’ Or ‘I would choose a different boat’."
The Dominican Cardinal did not shy away from the harsh realities facing the world, listing the external storms of "growing violence, from knife crime to war," the widening chasm between rich and poor, and the uncertainties of Artificial Intelligence.
He also acknowledged the internal storms shaking the Church, including "sexual abuse and ideological division."
The Danger of Hardened Hearts
Reflecting on the disciples who were "utterly astounded" because "their hearts were hardened," Radcliffe warned the Cardinals against remaining stuck in the "old logic of calculation."
"The disciples had fed the five thousand but they were stuck in the old logic... All that they had been able to produce was five loaves and a few fish. They had to discover that in the logic of the Kingdom, their small offerings were more than enough."
A Call to Unity
He concluded with a stark reminder about the necessity of communion for the Consistory’s success:
"If the boat of Peter is filled with disciples who quarrel, we shall be of no use to the Holy Father. If we are at peace with each other in love, even when we disagree, God will indeed be present even when he seems to be absent."
Cardinal Timothy Radcliffe, O.P. an English Dominican and theologian known for his preaching, writing, and work on social and spiritual issues, was elevated by Pope Francis to the College of Cardinals in 2023.
