Pope Francis concluded the month-long Synod of Bishops on Sunday, leaving significant issues unresolved concerning the role of women in the Roman Catholic Church. The synod’s final document, eagerly awaited by reform advocates, notably omitted discussion on key topics including female deacons, married priests, and the Church’s stance on LGBTQIA+ inclusion.

The absence of any substantial progress toward gender inclusivity within Church leadership left many disappointed, as expectations for reform had grown. Advocates had hoped the synod would address the possibility of ordaining female deacons, which some argue could help address the global priest shortage. Although deacons do not lead Mass, they carry out many other essential sacramental duties, including performing baptisms, officiating at weddings, and conducting funerals. Traditionally, however, the diaconate has remained exclusively male.

“The time is not ripe,” said Cardinal Victor Manuel Fernández, the Vatican’s top doctrinal official, during the assembly attended by 368 bishops and lay participants. His statement reinforced the Vatican’s cautious stance, though it left many wondering when—if ever—the Church might consider further discussion on the inclusion of women in the diaconate or other roles.

In a surprising decision, Pope Francis opted not to publish the full document produced by the synod, choosing instead to keep certain discussions confidential and leaving the issue of women’s roles in the Church somewhat open-ended. This move has fostered speculation about the Vatican’s long-term stance on gender inclusivity and frustrated those hoping for a more transparent response.

Patrizia Morgante, president of the Women for the Church Association, expressed dismay at the synod’s outcome. “We hear so many promises, yet see little meaningful progress,” she said. “I’m tired of hearing that women are the ‘heart’ of the Church. These are empty consolations we don’t need.” Morgante’s comments reflect a growing sentiment among many Catholic women who feel their contributions are undervalued, leading to a perception that they are “second-class” believers within the Church.

Morgante called for a more substantial shift in the Church’s approach toward women, emphasizing the need for respect and genuine dialogue. “We want to be respected as individuals, not as functions,” she said. “We want to discuss our experiences and have genuine dialogue in an equal relationship with men, whether consecrated or lay.”

The Pope’s efforts to create a Church that “listens” are apparent, yet the ambiguity regarding “maturity” for expanded roles of women within the Church remains a point of contention. For many reform-minded Catholics, the synod’s conclusion represents a missed opportunity to take definitive steps toward gender equity in the Church’s hierarchy and governance.

As the Catholic Church continues to face pressures for inclusivity and adaptation, this synod will likely remain a focal point in discussions on the future of women’s roles within the Church. The Vatican has yet to provide a clear timeline or criteria for addressing these issues, leaving advocates for reform to press forward as they await more decisive action from Church leadership.