In a significant reform initiated by Pope Francis, women have been granted voting rights in the synod, marking a historic shift in the Church’s hierarchy. De Simone, while acknowledging this progress, emphasized that the presence of women in the synod is still a “significant minority” and refrained from personally feeling marginalized by the Church.
A Reflective Approach Amid Conservative Opposition
Conservative factions within the Church have expressed concerns that the synod might pave the way for progressive reforms, including broader acceptance of divorcees and LGBT couples, as well as expanded roles for women. However, De Simone described the expectation that synod members would provide quick answers on contentious issues as “extremely misleading and even simplistic.”
Instead, she underscored the importance of the synod as a forum for collective contemplation and understanding, urging participation from all members, even those who may not fully align with the Church. De Simone stressed that the primary focus should be on developing a shared comprehension of the challenges before seeking paths for solutions.
“It’s not a question of immediately finding solutions to problems, but of developing together an understanding (of these problems) which then leads to looking for the paths to follow,” she emphasized. This approach, though slower, is deemed more fruitful in addressing complex matters.
Long Road Ahead
The synod discussions, set to continue until October 28, will reconvene in 12 months’ time, with the possibility of a papal document emerging, likely in 2025. This timeline suggests that any potential changes in Church teachings regarding women’s roles, LGBT issues, or other reforms may be a long-term endeavor.
Cardinal Raymond Burke of the United States, a vocal conservative critic of the synod, rallied opposition by invoking the hope that faithful prayers would protect the Church from change.
In the intricate realm of Vatican deliberations, the path forward remains uncertain, but the presence of women and the discussion of LGBT issues signify a notable step toward inclusivity and dialogue within the Catholic Church.