The Synod on Synodality assembly has concluded with the approval of a 42-page summary report, which underwent significant changes from the initial draft. The final summary report, released on Saturday night, omitted LGBTQ+ terminology and a proposal for a "super synod" while adding a new proposal for ex-priests to be given a pastoral service.

During the assembly, 1,251 amendments to the draft text were submitted by synod delegates, with a writing team working diligently to incorporate them into the final version. Every paragraph in the summary report received the required two-thirds support from the assembly.

Notably, the term "LGBTQ+" that appeared in the draft document was removed from the final summary report. The initial draft also proposed a permanently in-session synod providing consultation to the Pope, but this proposal did not make it into the final report.

The summary report did include the idea of offering a "pastoral service" to men who have left the priesthood on a case-by-case basis, aiming to enhance their training and experience. The final version also highlighted the importance of Church teaching, with the word "magisterium" appearing 10 times compared to the four references in the original draft.

Regarding LGBTQ+ issues, the phrasing was changed from "people who identify as LGBTQ+" to "people who feel marginalized or excluded from the Church because of their marriage situation, identity, and sexuality." The report, however, still used the terms "sexual orientation" and "gender identity" in one instance.

The absence of LGBTQ+ terminology in the final report was met with disappointment from some activists and media figures. However, the report emphasized the assembly's commitment to showing love, mercy, and compassion towards individuals who feel neglected by the Church, while also affirming the dignity of all people.

Another notable change in the final report was the absence of a proposal to establish a permanent synod of Bishops, which would advise the Pope. Instead, language was introduced about making the Council of Cardinals, who advise Pope Francis, into a "synodal council."

The writing team had just over 24 hours to synthesize the 1,251 amendments proposed by the assembly's voting delegates before presenting it to the members for the final vote. Many were skeptical about the team's ability to satisfy all the requests for changes within such a short time. However, the final vote concluded with every paragraph receiving the necessary support, leading to a sense of unity among the assembly.

The Synod on Synodality's summary report provides the foundation for the synod's October 2024 session, shaping future discussions and decisions within the Catholic Church.