General Congregation Begins: Cardinals Suspend Beatifications, Swear to Secrecy

*Vatican City, April 2025* — The Vatican has entered a period of heightened scrutiny as the General Congregation of Cardinals has officially begun. In a surprising and significant move, the College of Cardinals announced the suspension of all beatifications and other ecclesiastical recognitions of saints, while also pledging to maintain absolute secrecy during their deliberations. This decision has sparked widespread speculation and raised eyebrows both within and outside the Catholic Church.

The General Congregation, which is typically a regular gathering of cardinals for consultation on Church matters, has taken on a far more urgent tone in recent days. Cardinal representatives from around the world have assembled in the Vatican’s Apostolic Palace, not just for routine discussions, but to address some of the most pressing issues facing the global Church today. The suspension of beatifications is seen as a major step, especially in light of the ongoing scrutiny regarding various controversial figures within the Church.

### Suspension of Beatifications

Beatification is the official recognition by the Catholic Church of a deceased person's entrance into heaven and their ability to intercede for those on earth. It is a significant step toward canonization and has profound implications for the faithful. However, in a surprising turn, the cardinals collectively decided to halt all beatifications — both those currently in process and those slated for future consideration.

While no specific reasons have been publicly cited, insiders suggest that the suspension is tied to ongoing investigations into the actions of certain clergy members and Church officials. Some have suggested that the decision could be part of an effort to distance the Church from individuals who may have been involved in morally or ethically questionable actions, such as the recent scandal involving a prominent cardinal's alleged financial misconduct.

One anonymous source close to the Congregation indicated that the suspension of beatifications will remain in place until further review of these cases is completed. This could include an examination of the theological and moral virtues of candidates for sainthood, ensuring that their legacy aligns with the values the Church seeks to promote.

### Swearing to Secrecy

In addition to the suspension of beatifications, the cardinals have pledged to secrecy regarding the specifics of their discussions and decisions. This vow of confidentiality has long been a tradition during the General Congregation, but it has taken on new significance in light of recent developments. Cardinal Lorenzo di Benedetti, one of the key figures in the Congregation, confirmed that no information would be disclosed to the public unless authorized by the Pope himself.

“We are here to discuss matters of grave importance, and for the good of the Church, we must maintain the utmost confidentiality,” Cardinal di Benedetti said during a press briefing. “The decisions we make may have far-reaching consequences, and it is essential that we deliberate without external pressure or speculation.”

The pledge to secrecy has raised questions among critics, some of whom view the measure as a way to shield the Church from public scrutiny. Transparency advocates argue that a lack of openness could potentially harm the Church’s credibility, particularly in light of the ongoing reforms initiated by Pope Francis to combat the abuse scandals that have rocked the Church in recent years.

### Reactions and Speculation

The decision to suspend beatifications and enforce a vow of secrecy has ignited a wave of reactions from both inside and outside the Church. Many traditionalists have expressed support for the move, believing it to be a necessary step in ensuring that candidates for sainthood are fully vetted and that no one is elevated prematurely.

“The process of beatification should be rigorous, and the Church must ensure that only those who truly embody the virtues of the faith are recognized,” said Father Alberto Maggi, a theologian from Italy. “It is crucial that the Church take its time and avoid rushing through these proceedings.”

On the other hand, some reform-minded members of the Church have raised concerns that this suspension may be a cover for more significant internal issues, including financial malfeasance, clerical abuse, or theological disagreements among the cardinals. They fear that the secrecy surrounding the General Congregation could be used as a way to sideline key issues or to protect powerful figures within the Vatican.

“There is a very real concern that the suspension of beatifications could be part of a larger effort to hide uncomfortable truths,” said Maria Clara, a prominent Catholic journalist based in Rome. “The Church cannot afford to continue operating in secrecy if it hopes to regain the trust of its followers, particularly the younger generation, who are calling for more accountability.”

### The Road Ahead

While the outcome of the General Congregation remains to be seen, it is clear that the cardinals are poised to make decisions that could reshape the Church’s direction for years to come. Whether the suspension of beatifications and the vow of secrecy will have lasting implications on the public’s perception of the Church is yet to be determined.

As the Vatican navigates this period of uncertainty, one thing is clear: the General Congregation has entered a new chapter in its history. The eyes of the Catholic world are on the cardinals as they prepare to chart a course for the future of the Church — one that may involve difficult decisions and a reevaluation of its relationship with its most revered figures.

For now, the faithful, along with observers of the Church’s inner workings, must wait and watch as the cardinals continue their deliberations in the shadow of secrecy.