Synod Group Calls for Gender-equality Mechanisms in Church Workplaces

In brief

The General Secretariat of the Synod released a final report from Study Group 6 on September 8, proposing specific ways to improve relations between bishops, consecrated life, and ecclesial associations. The nonbinding document calls for the development of a clear mechanism to implement gender equality within Church workplaces.

The report also suggests that every diocese appoint a delegate for consecrated life and proposes publishing new criteria for approving the establishment of institutes of consecrated life.

Coordinated by Cardinal Joseph William Tobin, the group included Cardinal Kevin Farrell, Cardinal Luis Antonio Tagle, Cardinal João Braz de Aviz, and Sister Simona Brambilla. The study group has dissolved following the publication of its findings. Pope Leo XIV will review the report, which was produced by one of 10 study groups established by Pope Francis in 2024 for the Synod on Synodality.