Pope Francis has approved a new three-year reform process for the Catholic Church, signaling his commitment to reshaping the institution despite spending a month in the hospital battling pneumonia.
Thank you for reading this post, don't forget to subscribe!The Vatican announced that the 88-year-old pontiff signed off on the reform plans while hospitalized at Rome’s Gemelli hospital, where he has been receiving treatment since February 14—his longest hospital stay since becoming pope 12 years ago.
Major Reforms on the Table
The proposed changes aim to expand the roles of women in the Catholic Church, including discussions on ordaining them as deacons. Other reforms focus on increasing lay participation in church governance and decision-making.
These reforms have been examined through the Synod of Bishops, a key platform for implementing Pope Francis’ vision. In 2023 and 2024, two Vatican assemblies—featuring female voting members for the first time—deliberated on these issues, but the final document left the ordination of women deacons unresolved.
The pope’s latest move extends the process until an “ecclesial assembly” in October 2028, which will bring together bishops, clergy, monks, nuns, and lay members—a unique shift from traditional synods. By then, Francis would be 91, meaning his successor may have to continue the reforms if a conclave occurs during the process.
Pushback from Church Leadership
The pope’s decision is also seen as a response to resistance from conservative bishops and senior leaders who oppose his progressive agenda. Cardinal Mario Grech, head of the Vatican’s synod office, noted that the extended timeline allows dioceses that have lagged in the reform process to catch up and form their own synodal teams.
Pope Continues to Govern Amid Health Concerns
Despite his hospitalization, Pope Francis has remained actively engaged in church affairs. He has signed official documents, appointed bishops, and met with senior aides while receiving treatment.
The Vatican reports that the pope is in stable condition with gradual improvements. His need for non-invasive mechanical ventilation has reduced, and he is expected to recover. However, his 30-day hospitalization has heightened concerns over his health, although it remains shorter than Pope John Paul II’s 55-day stay at the same hospital.
As Pope Francis pushes forward with his vision for a more inclusive and decentralized Catholic Church, the coming years will determine whether his reforms will take full effect or face further opposition from within.
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