Pope Francis’ doctrinal chief faced criticism for synod delegates over his office’s lack of diversity, clear communication and transparency when it comes to the question of women deacons.

A transcript prepared by America Media sheds light on the meeting between Cardinal Fernández and synod participants held on Oct. 24.

External realities are complicating the traditional structures on which parishes have relied for decades.

At the end of the second session of the Synod on Synodality, Jesuitical spoke with Cardinal Joseph Tobin about the synod’s final document, which kept open the question of women’s access to the diaconate.

Fr. James Martin shares his five insights from the synod's final document, just approved by Pope Francis and published by the Vatican.

“I am convinced that we cannot wait to take steps forward for the empowerment of women in the church” by distinguishing what requires ordination and what does not, Cardinal Fernández told about 100 synod members.