Pope Francis delivered a homily during the closing Mass for the Synod of Bishops in St. Peter's Basilica Oct. 27.

"I do not intend to publish an apostolic exhortation. What we have approved is enough," Pope Francis said. Instead, he ordered the publication of the synod's final document.

“I am convinced that we cannot wait to take steps forward for the empowerment of women in the church” by distinguishing what requires ordination and what does not, Cardinal Fernández told about 100 synod members.

The 18 cardinals who head Vatican offices will find a little less in their pay envelopes starting Nov. 1.

Recognizing the doctrinal authority of bishops’ conferences does not mean allowing them to reject the teaching authority of the pope, said the head of the Vatican Dicastery for Bishops.

The Vatican and the Chinese government are renewing their agreement on the appointment of bishops for four years.