Papal consistory

In the Catholic Church, a consistory is a formal meeting of the College of Cardinals called by the pope. There are two kinds of consistories, extraordinary and ordinary. An "extraordinary" consistory is held to allow the pope to consult with the entire membership of the College of Cardinals. An "ordinary" consistory is ceremonial in nature and is normally attended by cardinals resident in Rome. For example, the pope elevates new cardinals to the College at a consistory; Pope Francis called consistories for ceremonies of canonization; and Pope Benedict announced his decision to retire in 2013 at a consistory.

A meeting of the College of Cardinals to elect a new pope is not a consistory, but a conclave.

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