Pope Leo XIV is set to reinstate the tradition of personally bestowing the pallium on new archbishops, a practice that symbolizes unity with the Pope. The ceremony, a key event for the Catholic Church, will occur on the feast of Sts. Peter and Paul. This marks a return to a practice previously altered by Pope Francis. The pallium, a significant liturgical vestment, is a symbol of the archbishop's service to the people of God.
22 days ago
Pope Leo XIV will reinstate the tradition of personally bestowing the pallium on new metropolitan archbishops 1. This reverses the change made by Pope Francis in 2015, who opted to have the papal nuncio perform the imposition in the archbishop's home archdiocese 1 2. The announcement was made by the Office of Liturgical Celebrations, noting the Pope will preside over the Eucharistic Celebration and impose the palliums on June 29 1.
Pope Francis's decision to have the pallium imposed locally was intended to emphasize the connection between the archbishop and their local church, reflecting his focus on "synodality" 1 2. The return to the previous practice raises questions about Pope Leo XIV's interpretation of synodality 2. "Synodality" has been a topic of discussion within the Vatican, with varying interpretations 2. Pope Leo himself has mentioned "synodality" since his installation, suggesting its continued importance 2.
The pallium is a woolen band worn by metropolitan archbishops, symbolizing unity with the Pope and service to the people of God 1. It signifies the power a metropolitan archbishop has in his province, in communion with the Roman church 1. The pallium dates back to the fifth century and features six black silk crosses 2. St. John Paul II emphasized that the pallium represents a privileged communion with the successor of Peter and a commitment to love for Christ and souls 1.
Papal authority symbolizes and enacts communion within the Church.
The Pope, as the successor of Peter, holds a unique position of authority in the Catholic Church, symbolizing and enacting communion among the faithful . This authority is rooted in the belief that Christ entrusted Peter with the leadership of the apostles and the Church .
The Pope's authority ensures the Church remains united in its teachings, governance, and mission . This unity strengthens the Church's ability to fulfill its saving mission .