Matthew 13:44- 46

26 July 2026 • World Day of Grandparents and the Elderly

Even as consensus emerged on many fronts, inherent divergences also remained in the listening process. While many called for greater inclusion of women in decision-making roles, and for their ordination to the diaconate or priesthood, others voiced discomfort or offered alternative solutions: ‘Many voiced a strong opinion on the need for women in ministry while others, a small but vocal minority, insisted that the best way forward was a male diaconate and foreign priests, however the differences in culture was cited as a major obstacle.'

Views ranged from acceptance of the current exclusion, while requesting clear explanations:
‘Some expressed acceptance of the exclusion of women to ordination while asking that people be told why this is so,' to calls for greater inclusion: ‘On the role of women, strong support for expanded participation (including diaconate) coexisted with some expressing a view that current roles were sufficient.'

Some saw the persistence of the theme as a step forward, while others saw its continued resurfacing as inadequate or patronising. Divergences were often tied to theological interpretations, cultural differences, and the pace of change. Others linked the discussion to trust and transparency, noting ‘lack of trust was also partly present in relation to women and the absence of reference to ordination to the diaconate.