Conservatives Clash with Pope on Gender and LGBTQ+ Rights Ahead of Vatican Summit

Ahead of a major Vatican meeting, conservative Catholics, including five cardinals, have challenged Pope Francis on issues such as same-sex couples and the role of women in the Church. The cardinals sent a set of formal questions to the pope, seeking clarifications on these matters. Additionally, a women's group expressed the view that only men should have voting rights at the event. The meeting, known as a bishops synod, will discuss various topics including the role of women, acceptance of LGBT Catholics, social justice, and climate change. The clash between the pope and conservative factions highlights ongoing tensions within the Catholic Church.