On paper, Pope Francis’ programme of curial reform is at an advanced stage. Vatican officials, who are up to date with meetings of the group of cardinals advising the Pope, the C9, say that at least a part of the reshaping process has been completed. It should result in the creation of two new bodies. The first body will be a “Congregation of the Laity”, bringing together existing departments or councils for family, lay movements, New Evangelisation and the Pontifical Academy for Life. There will also be new departments (as yet unnamed) for women and youth. The second body will be a “Council for Social Issues”, incorporating the pontifical councils for Justice and Peace, the Pastoral Care of Migrants, Health-Care Workers, and Cor Unum, which fosters charitabl