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Why was the Council of Trent delayed before it opened in 1545?

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Painting by Nicolo Dorigati showing the opening session of the Council of Trent, with clergy in white robes seated in a grand cathedral and an altar at the center. — Council of Trent Opening session of the Council of Trent in 1545, depicted by Nicolò Dorigati, 1711; in the Museo Diocesano Tridentino, Trento, Italy.

The Council of Trent was delayed for nine years before its inauguration in 1545 primarily due to complex political opposition and the need to navigate the competing interests of European powers.12

Pope Paul III, who was convinced that church reform and Christian unity required a council, faced persistent resistance from emperors, kings, prelates, and princes. Specifically, earlier popes like Clement VII had hesitated to call a council for fear of renewed attacks on papal supremacy, while France preferred inaction out of concern regarding the growth of German power.12

Throughout his efforts to convene the council, Pope Paul III had to repeatedly prorogue and postpone the opening to manage these diverse political pressures. It was only through his persistent efforts that he finally succeeded in having the council inaugurated by his legate, Cardinal Giovanni del Monte, on December 13, 1545.12