The second session of the Synod on Synodality began with a penitential liturgy at St. Peter’s Basilica, where a victim of child sexual abuse shared his story for the first time during an official liturgy there. This underscored the church’s commitment to naming its sins, greater transparency and accountability.

On this episode of Inside the Vatican, host Colleen Dulle and veteran Vatican correspondent Gerard O’Connell are joined by producer Ricardo da Silva, S.J., to recap the first week of the synod. While the consideration of contentious issues like the ordination of women to the diaconate have been tabled from the official agenda and set aside for deeper study, they continue to be raised by delegates despite this, as Ricardo reports.

Later, Colleen and Gerry discuss some of the 21 cardinals-elect named at the weekend by Pope Francis—all but one eligible to vote in the conclave—and how each aligns with his vision for a more inclusive, compassionate church, serving the most marginalized.

More on stories from this episode:

Synod opens with unusual penitential service: 7 cardinals ask for forgiveness for church’s s ins

Father Radcliffe tells synod members: Don’t be driven by fear of the church changing—or staying the same

Pope Francis names 21 new cardinals, including Timothy Radcliffe, O.P. | America Magazine

Pope Francis has appointed about 80 percent of the cardinals who will elect the next pope

Synod coverage on other America podcasts:

Jesuitical Podcast: Women doing deacon-like ministry meet with Pope Francis

Preach Interview: Timothy Radcliffe on how he prepares to give homilies—and preach to synod delegates

Further synod coverage from America:

Pope Francis sends $67,000 to Gaza parish, with $35,000 raised in one day from synod delegates

Synod Diary: What the synod has to say about peace, remembrance and the anniversary of Oct. 7

Synod Diary: Women deacons are not a ‘Western’ obsession