Vatican Synod Leaves Women Deacons and LGBT Issues Unresolved

The month-long Vatican Synod of Bishops, which followed a two-year consultation with Catholics, concluded without clear stances on contentious issues such as women deacons and the inclusion of the LGBT community. While the possibility of women being ordained as deacons received negative votes, the final report did not take a stand on LGBT issues, despite discussions beforehand. The report acknowledged the desire of marginalized individuals to be heard and accompanied but did not call for greater inclusion. LGBT advocates expressed disappointment, emphasizing the importance of the Catholic Church living up to its ideals of inclusivity and equality. Pope Francis will ceremoniously close the gathering with a Mass on Sunday.