Sisters, act

Betty Henderson

POPE FRANCIS broke tradition in a historic move on Wednesday, April 26 as the Vatican announced that women will be given voting rights at an upcoming meeting of bishops in October.

In a move that has been praised by many as a significant step forward, five religious sisters will be permitted to cast votes at the synod, which is an advisory body for the papacy.

This decision marks a significant shift in the Roman Catholic Church, which has been heavily dominated by men for centuries. The Women’s Ordination Conference praised the reform, calling it “a significant crack in the stained glass ceiling.”

Pope Francis also announced that 70 non­clerical members of the religious community will be given voting rights, in another break from tradition that will make the synod more inclusive by including women and young people.

This groundbreaking move has not come without resistance, with some parts of the Church likely to push back against the decision. However, it is clear that Pope Francis is committed to making the Church more representative and inclusive, and this is just the beginning of a new era for the Catholic Church.