Some Catholics hope the process will lead to change on issues such as the ordination of women (the appointment of chaplains), married priests and same-sex relationships.
They say the focus on reform may distract from issues facing the church, such as corruption and dwindling attendance.
The repair process has three stages:
1- The “listening phase”, in which dioceses and episcopalians will be able to discuss a wide range of issues.
2- The “continental phase” which will witness the meeting of the bishops, to discuss and formalize their findings.
3- The “global stage”, which will witness a meeting of the Vatican bishops over a month, in October 2023.
The Pope will write an Apostolic Exhortation, to clarify his views and decisions on the issues discussed.
Pope Francis was; The Pope of the Vatican urged Catholics, during the launch of the consultative process in a mass held in St. Peter's Square, not to "stay confined to our constants"; Rather, it is "listening to one another."
The Pope asked, "Are we ready to take the adventure of this journey? Or do we fear the unknown and prefer to resort to the usual excuses?"
