Discerning Deacons Applauds Pope Francis’ Decision Allowing Lay Women To Vote At Upcoming Synod Assembly

“Discerning Deacons is thrilled by this historic announcement. The Pope’s decision demonstrates a Church that is already listening to the cries and hopes of the people of God. The expansion of participation in the upcoming Synod of Bishops to include lay women marks a pivotal moment that demonstrates that the Catholic Church is listening to and recognizing the importance of inclusive participation in the discernment process. This is yet another seismic shift for the way the Catholic church walks in the world. We encourage Catholic Church leadership to continue this vital work towards genuinely valuing the voices and trusting all of the faithful–women, men, lay, clergy–to be part of discerning the path forward the Church is called to when they gather together in Rome this fall.”