Vatican, against expectations, did not allow women to occupy the rank of deacon – Associated Press.

The World Synod of Bishops of the Catholic Church, under the leadership of Pope Francis, did not make decisions regarding the equality of women in the church and did not allow the ordination of women as deacons. This is reported by AP.

The final document of the Synod states that the issue of women's access to the diaconal ministry remains open.

In this Time of war, we must be witnesses of peace and set an example of living with diversity, - explained the Pope, justifying his decision.

Cardinal Victor Fernandez noted that the Pope is against the possibility for women to become deacons; however, he is ready to consider this issue in more detail.

A special commission was created to explore the possibilities of expanding women's rights in the Catholic Church. However, according to Fernandez, this commission will focus only on expanding the powers of women outside the positions of church ministers. As for the possibility of ordaining women as deacons, he believes the time for this has not yet come.

The cardinal explains that most women in the church do not wish to be deacons, as it interferes with their lay activities.

The results of the Synod disappointed Catholics who supported the movement for equal rights for women and men in the church.

Currently, women do not have the opportunity to occupy higher positions in the church, but they do significant work in leading Catholic hospitals and schools.

In the Catholic Church, all spiritual positions are held by men.

Other news

On Sunday, October 6, Pope Francis announced the appointment of 21 new cardinals, among them Ukrainian Bishop Mykola Bychok.

Moreover, the Pope noted that the Ukrainian law prohibiting the activities of religious organizations in Ukraine related to Russia prohibits people from praying "in the church they consider their own".

New encyclical of the Pope

On Thursday, October 24, the Pope published his fourth encyclical Dilexit Nos, which is dedicated to human and divine love of the Heart of Jesus Christ.