Delegates gathered at the Synod on Synodality in Rome are gearing up for a crucial round of debate on proposed amendments to a draft "synthesis report." The 365 voting delegates will review and vote on amendments before the synod concludes on Saturday.

A copy of the draft report, obtained by The Pillar, reveals several contentious sections that are expected to spark debate among participants. These sections include discussions on the sensus fidei, the Church's modes of pastoral care, episcopal accountability, and the potential admission of women to the diaconate.

The 40-page draft report aims to summarize the Church's journey towards synodality, which is defined as a collaborative approach to discerning God's will through prayer and dialogue among believers. It emphasizes the significance of expanding participation and overcoming obstacles to create a sense of trust and inclusion.

Of particular interest is a proposal for bishops' conferences to elect a "permanent synod of bishops" to support the Petrine ministry, departing from the current ad hoc structure of the synod. However, uncertainties loom as Pope Francis has cautioned against a parliamentary approach to synodality.

The draft report also suggests the establishment of "continental assemblies" to foster ongoing engagement among clerics and laity from neighboring countries. It further urges personal conversion to missionary synodality for Catholics.

While some delegates express concerns about limited time for reviewing the draft, numerous issues are expected to see proposed amendments in the synod's final days.

One contentious section deals with "the Church's discernment of controversial issues." The draft acknowledges the need for further discussion on topics such as gender identity, sexual orientation, end-of-life matters, difficult marital situations, and ethical concerns related to artificial intelligence. However, some argue that the section fails to adequately reference the Church's magisterial teaching on these issues.

Another area of debate centers around the draft's mention of the sensus fidei, which refers to the consensus among the faithful in matters of faith and morals. While the draft defines it as an intuitive understanding of divine realities, some bishops argue that it deviates from established Catholic doctrine.

In addition, proposed amendments may address proposals to strengthen the authority of metropolitan archbishops over diocesan bishops, the evaluation of papal nuncios by diocesan bishops, and the clarification of synodality through committees and commissions.

Support is expected for measures promoting mandatory pastoral councils at the parish and diocesan levels, as well as increased participation of women in priestly formation.

The final document is set to be published on Saturday evening, marking the culmination of the Synod on Synodality.