Pope appoints women in an important role in the world synod - a historical step!

Pope appoints women in an important role in the world synod - a historical step!

Vatikanstadt, Italien - Vatican city, December 13, 2024 - A historical step for the Catholic Church: Pope Francis has first appointed two women in key positions for the implementation of the resolutions of the world synod. The Italian Simona Brambilla, Vice of the Vatican Orders' Authority, and the Argentine sociology professor María Lía Zervino were included in the now expanded synodrat, who is responsible for the preparation of the ordinary general meetings of the World Bishopric Synod. This was reported kathpress.at . In addition, the committee includes four cardinals, including Jean-Claude Hollerich from Luxembourg and Roberto Repole from Turin.

Overall, Pope Francis increased the number of members of the synod council from 13 to 17 to promote more diversity and decentralization within the church. Traveling bishops from the Catholic Eastern Churches, Oceania and various continents are also part of the structure, which is intended to specifically deal with the future role of women in the church. "The question of the role of women in the Catholic Church arises on all continents," said the new Cardinal Ladislav Nemet of Serbia in an interview with katholisch.de . He also emphasized the importance of decentralization so that every local church can adapt its unique cultural and social needs.

The world synod not only focused on the presence of laypersons and women, but also created an atmosphere of the open dialogue that could bridge the differences among the members. Nemet noticed that a deep understanding of different perspectives and common trust was built in the round table talks. In the long term, these developments could lead to an open and transparent church that is under the leadership of bishops and priests that are aware of the accountability of their believers.