Pope Francis Opens Synod on Women's Role

Pope Francis has opened the second phase of his Catholic reform project, focusing on enhancing women's roles within the church while excluding the topic of ordained ministry. The synod, which includes 368 bishops and laypeople, will convene for three weeks to discuss the future of the church, aiming to align it more closely with contemporary Catholic needs. However, discussions on contentious issues like LGBTQ+ ministry and women's ordination are being deferred to study groups, with final proposals due by October 26. Critics express frustration over the lack of immediate changes, particularly regarding LGBTQ+ rights and the church's response to sexual abuse scandals. In a recent meeting with women ministry leaders, Francis acknowledged the importance of women's contributions but maintained that deacons with holy orders remain a male-only role. The synod's outcomes may shape the church's direction, but significant changes on divisive issues are not anticipated until next year.