Pope Francis is opening a global gathering of bishops and laypeople to discuss the future of the Catholic Church, including some hot-button issues that have previously been considered off-limits for discussion.
For the first time, women and laypeople can vote on specific proposals alongside bishops, a radical change that is evidence of Francis’ belief that the church is more about its flock than its shepherds.
It calls for a “ radical inclusion” of LGBTQ+ Catholics and others who have been marginalized by the church, and for new accountability measures to check how bishops exercise their authority to prevent abuses.
Bishops Antonio Yao Shun from Jining in Inner Mongolia and Yang Yongquiang of Zhoucun in Shandung province were nominated by Francis after the church in China put their names forward.
While originally livestreams were planned, and several extra communications officers were hired, organizers have made clear this is a closed-door meeting and participants have been told to not speak to journalists.
Paolo Ruffini, in charge of communications for the meeting, denied the debate had been put under the pontifical secret, one of the highest forms of confidentiality in the church.
Challenged on the lack of transparency, Francis has said he didn’t want “political gossip” leaking out with news of participants duking it out over tough issues.
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For the first time, women and laypeople can vote on specific proposals alongside bishops, a radical change that is evidence of Francis’ belief that the church is more about its flock than its shepherds.
It calls for a “ radical inclusion” of LGBTQ+ Catholics and others who have been marginalized by the church, and for new accountability measures to check how bishops exercise their authority to prevent abuses.
Bishops Antonio Yao Shun from Jining in Inner Mongolia and Yang Yongquiang of Zhoucun in Shandung province were nominated by Francis after the church in China put their names forward.
While originally livestreams were planned, and several extra communications officers were hired, organizers have made clear this is a closed-door meeting and participants have been told to not speak to journalists.
Paolo Ruffini, in charge of communications for the meeting, denied the debate had been put under the pontifical secret, one of the highest forms of confidentiality in the church.
Challenged on the lack of transparency, Francis has said he didn’t want “political gossip” leaking out with news of participants duking it out over tough issues.
The original article contains 838 words, the summary contains 184 words. Saved 78%. I’m a bot and I’m open source!