"Pope Francis Urges Church to Embrace Change and Unity at Vatican Synod"

Pope Francis opened the Vatican summit on the future of Catholicism, urging participants to reject doctrinal rigidity and embrace an open and welcoming vision of the church. The synod will address hot button issues such as clergy abuse, women's ministry, LGBTQ inclusion, and church authority. The pope cautioned against relying on human strategies and ideological battles, emphasizing unity and friendship. He drew a parallel to the Second Vatican Council and called for a church that looks mercifully at humanity. The synod, which will take place in two sessions, is expected to be the most contentious of Francis' papacy.