After two years of ongoing discussions, the Synod on Synodality concluded with a significant announcement from Pope Francis: he will not be issuing a post-synodal exhortation. Instead, the Pope expressed a desire to honor the substantial work of the synodal assembly, noting that the final document already provides “very concrete indications” for guiding the Church forward. 

Highlights of the Synod’s Final Document 

The synod’s final document was published on October 26, receiving a two-thirds majority for each of its 155 points. Among these points is a pivotal new directive requiring dicasteries to consult with bishops’ conferences “before publishing important normative documents,” provided it does not impact Church doctrine. This measure reflects the synod’s commitment to enhancing the collaborative dynamic within Church governance. 

Addressing the Role of Women in the Church 

One of the most debated topics during the synod was point 60, which focused on the role of women within the Church. The assembly concluded that “there are no reasons that prevent women from assuming leadership roles in the Church,” adding that “the question of women's access to diaconal ministry remains open.” 

Relator General of the Synod, Cardinal Jean-Claude Hollerich, elaborated during a press conference following the document's release. “The Holy Father hasn’t said ‘women will be ordained deacons,’ nor has he said ‘women will not be ordained deacons,’” Hollerich explained. “He has simply said it remains open and needs study, with a focus on what women have historically contributed in leadership, ritual, and community roles within the Church, without ordination.” 

Pope Francis’ Closing Remarks 

The Pope closed the synod in Rome in the same way he opened it: with a Eucharistic celebration. More than 5,000 people gathered in St. Peter’s Basilica for the Holy Mass. Pope Francis used the occasion to challenge the Church’s mission in modern society, urging, “Brothers and sisters, not a seated Church, but a Church on her feet. Not a silent Church, but a Church that embraces the cry of humanity. Not a blind Church, but a Church, enlightened by Christ, that brings the light of the Gospel to others. Not a static Church, but a missionary Church that walks with her Lord through the streets of the world.” 

After Mass, the Pope led the Angelus prayer with those gathered and encouraged the faithful to pray that “all that has been discussed during the synod of bishops will advance for the good of the Church.” 

Rudolf Gehrig contributed to this Vaticano segment. 

Adapted by Jacob Stein 

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