"Synod Sparks Debate on Women and Catholic Structures"

The Vatican's synod office has released a 60-page document that will guide the Synod of Bishops in October, which will address issues such as women deacons, access to the priesthood for married men, the integration of LGBTQ+ Catholics, and penance for sexual abuse and the abuse of power, conscience and money. The document is structured around three themes of communion, mission, and participation, and includes over 100 specific questions for synod participants to reflect upon. The primary goal of the first session will be to outline areas of in-depth study that will be carried out in a synodal style in the lead-up to the synod's second session in October 2024.