Pope Francis has approved a three-year reform process for the Catholic Church, sending a strong signal that he intends to continue as pope despite his recent hospitalization. The Vatican announced that the 88-year-old pope signed off on the reform plans from Rome’s Gemelli hospital.
The reforms aim to give greater roles to women in the Catholic Church, including ordaining them as deacons. The process has been examined through a structure called the Synod of Bishops, which has involved Catholics worldwide. Two recent Vatican assemblies included female voting members and discussed the role of women in church governance.
Francis’ decision extends the reform process by three years and will culminate in an “ecclesial assembly” in October 2028. This unique gathering of bishops, clergy, monks, friars, nuns, and laymen and women could potentially lead to a conclave while Francis is still pope, with the next leader tasked with continuing his reform efforts.
The pope’s move is also a response to resistant bishops who have opposed his reform plans. Cardinal Mario Grech said that the new plan offers dioceses an opportunity to catch up on steps not yet taken and form their own synodal teams.
Despite his hospitalization, Francis has continued to govern the church, signing documents and meeting with senior aides. The Vatican reported that Francis is in stable condition and making gradual improvements but still requires treatment at the hospital.
Source: https://edition.cnn.com/2025/03/15/europe/index.html