(LifeSiteNews) — As far as the Italian bishops are concerned, the issue of a female diaconate is still on the table.
On October 25, the Italian Synod approved a final document of proposals in which the synod affirmed its support and called for research into the issues addressing the ordination of women to the diaconate by the Holy See.
Section 71c of the document states that the synod offers its “support and [promotes] research projects of theological faculties and theological associations to offer a contribution to the deepening of issues relating to the diaconate of women initiated by the Holy See.”
Section 71c regarding the female diaconate was the least popular among participants at the synod, passing with 77% approval.
Progressive Cardinal Matteo Zuppi, who served as president of the synod, emphasized the significance of the assembly’s decisions and urged bishops to implement the proposals within their respective dioceses.
“The conclusions were not written before we began…we have tried to listen all together to the voice of the Spirit, in the certainty of embarking on a courageous undertaking,” said Zuppi about the synod’s proposals.
“Now that this Assembly has today concluded the text with its vote, it is the Pastors’ task to assume everything, identify priorities, and involve both old and new resources to give life to the words collegiality and synodality.”
READ: Cardinal Cupich calls the Latin Mass a ‘spectacle’
The decision to investigate the possibility of a women’s diaconate is the latest controversial proposal to emerge from this session of the Italian synod, alongside others that have challenged long-standing Church traditions.
The Italian synod had already agreed on proposals to promote the “recognition and accompaniment of homosexuality and transgender persons” as well as regularizing aspects of adultery.
Pope Francis first addressed the question of a women’s diaconate in 2023, reaffirming that “holy orders are reserved for men.” He reiterated that position in a 2024 interview with 60 Minutes anchor Norah O’Donnell.
“And I’m curious, for a little girl growing up Catholic today, will she ever have the opportunity to be a deacon and participate as a clergy member in the Church?” asked O’Donnell.
“No,” the Pope responded..
To conclude the end of voting in the Italian synod, Cardinal Zuppi addressed the members by reiterating that the ‘synodal path’ will continue to guide the Church.
“The Synodal Path ends today, but the synodal style will accompany us, urging us to realise over time what we have intuited, discussed, written, and voted on.”
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