The announcement is an important affirmation and recognition of the status of the laity and the family in the Vatican structure.

Archbishop Roberto Gonzàlez Nieves of San Juan is convinced the pope will have 'the freedom to follow up' on the questions that have emerged.

In his address to the synod on Oct. 17, Pope Francis emphasized the need to give new life to structures of synodality in the local churches worldwide. He confirmed his intention to promote greater “decentralization” in the church and to bring about “a conversion of the papacy.&rdqu

These reports give some interesting insights into the positions taken by the 270 synod fathers, but they do not tell the whole story as the 13 groups submitted more than 500 amendments that can had a determining impact on the final text.

Pope Francis believes in starting processes that can develop over time, and are not caught in the trap of having to get rapid results or immediate solutions.

The synod’s handbook states that “a strong consensus or at least a two-thirds majority among those voting is required” for the approval of the final text.

Cardinal Donald Wuerl has flatly denied the allegations by some of his fellow cardinals and bishops that the fathers attending the synod are “somehow” being manipulated by the pope

“A synodal church is a listening church … in which each one has something to learn.”

He recalled that “one of the participants said he felt like one of the three kings, he’s going to go back home by a different way. And I think that is true for all of us.” Cupich believes the synod will have been a success if this indeed has been the impact on participants.

Several fathers believe there could be route between the polarized positions on admitting divorced and remarried Catholics to the Eucharist.