Archbishop Paul Coakley of Oklahoma City is set to deliver his first remarks as president of the United States Conference of Catholic Bishops (USCCB) before bishops consecrate the nation to the Sacred Heart of Jesus in June.
The USCCB is set to gather for the 2026 Spring Plenary Assembly in Orlando, Florida, on June 10–12.
Archbishop Gabriele Giordano Caccia, nuncio to the United States, also is scheduled to deliver his first address to U.S. bishops since his appointment in March.
In preparation for consecrating the nation, bishops will hear reflections on the Sacred Heart from several of the bishops ahead of the Mass. The USCCB said in a statement that the bishops hope the event encourages parishes and individuals to also participate in America's 250th anniversary by contributing to 250 hours of adoration and 250 works of mercy.
Lectionary changes
The full plenary agenda has not yet been finalized and is subject to change, but it is expected to include votes on a number of action items including the causes for canonization of Monsignor Joseph Francis Buh and John Rick Miller.
The Committee on Divine Worship also will present elements of a revised edition of the "Lectionary for Mass" and the "2025 Roman Missal-Liturgy of the Hours Supplement" for approval.
The bishops are expected to vote on a potential revision to the "Charter for the Protection of Children and Young People," which was first addressed by bishops in 2022 meetings.
The bishops have determined the charter is in need of revisions to align with its original intention of safeguarding minors, the prevention of abuse, and ensuring structures continue to be in place to respond to abuse allegations, the USCCB said.
9-year novena, Catholic universities to be discussed
The U.S. bishops are also expected to talk about the USCCB's engagement with the Intercontinental Guadalupan Novena, a nine-year novena called for by Pope Francis in 2022 that anticipates the fifth centennial of the apparition of Our Lady of Guadalupe in 2031.
For the 25th anniversary of the implementation of Ex Corde Ecclesiae in the U.S., there is an expected presentation and reflection on Pope John Paul II's apostolic constitution to guide Catholic colleges and universities on theological and pastoral principles.
The group will also discuss upcoming events including World Youth Day 2027, which will be held in Seoul, South Korea.
