Summary
A Vatican commission has decided again that women should not be ordained as deacons. The report suggests new roles for women outside of being ordained as deacons, with the issue remaining open for more research. Some Catholic groups expressed disappointment and called for continued exploration.
Key Facts
- The Vatican commission voted against ordaining women as deacons.
- The commission shared its findings publicly and noted different views on the issue.
- The report suggests creating new lay roles for women but not ordaining them as deacons.
- There is historical evidence of women serving as deacons in early Christianity.
- Pope Francis ordered the first commission on this topic in 2016, and a second in 2020.
- Some groups advocate for women's ordination to address church leadership roles and priest shortages.
- Opponents worry ordaining women deacons might lead to women becoming priests.
