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Vatican Publishes Commission Report That Rules Out Women Deacons for Now

Citing an unresolved theological divide, the synthesis urges further study alongside expanded lay ministries for women.

Overview

  • The Petrocchi commission voted 7–1 that current historical and theological research excludes admitting women to the diaconate as a degree of Holy Orders at this time, while saying no definitive judgment can yet be made.
  • The Vatican released the seven-page synthesis on Thursday at Pope Leo XIV’s request, making public the commission’s internal votes and reasoning.
  • In a separate 9–1 vote, the panel recommended broadening non‑ordained ministries to give women greater ecclesial recognition.
  • The report describes two opposing schools of thought—one viewing diaconal ordination as ad ministerium and another insisting on the unity and nuptial meaning of Holy Orders—without convergence.
  • After reviewing synodal submissions, the commission noted only 22 interventions from few countries and cautioned that the material cannot be considered representative of the global Church.