Participants in the assembly of the Synod of Bishops gather for an afternoon session Octtober 25, 2023, in the Paul VI Audience Hall at the Vatican. Photo: CNS/Vatican Media Russell Shaw Levelling hierarchical distinctions in the Church without removing them entirely has emerged as a principal objective of Pope Francis’ Synod on Synodality. That is perhaps the chief conclusion to be drawn from the first session of the synod, which took place October 4-29 at the Vatican. The second, and presumably last, session will…
