This week brought a series of notable developments from the Vatican, where Pope Leo XIV addressed questions at the heart of Church life while engaging with some of today’s most urgent global challenges. From clarifying the Church’s position on the female diaconate to renewing calls for peace during his first apostolic journey abroad, the Pope also met with Ukraine’s president and implemented significant internal reforms. Together, these actions signal a pontificate moving with clarity and purpose.

Vatican: No Female Diaconate

The Study Commission on the Female Diaconate, created by Pope Francis, has concluded that women cannot be admitted to the diaconate as a degree of the sacrament of Holy Orders. The commission, which voted seven in favor and one against, stated that it is not currently possible “to formulate a definitive judgment,” similar to the Church’s position on priestly ordination. While acknowledging that “deaconesses” existed throughout Church history, the commission clarified that their roles were diverse and never equivalent to the sacramental ministry of male deacons. The findings reaffirm the Church’s historical understanding while encouraging continued study of the topic.

‘Peace Is Possible,’ Says Pope Leo XIV

Returning from his first apostolic journey to Turkey and Lebanon, Pope Leo XIV shared a hopeful message: “peace is possible.” He highlighted new steps toward Christian unity and described his encounters with the Lebanese people, who continue to seek justice following the 2020 Beirut port explosion. The Pope spoke of discovering a “mosaic of coexistence” in Lebanon, meeting individuals and communities serving the most vulnerable through welcoming refugees, visiting the imprisoned, and providing food for those in need. His reflections underscored the resilience of the region and the Church’s mission of accompaniment.

Pope Leo XIV Meets Ukrainian President Zelenskyy

Pope Leo XIV welcomed Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelenskyy at the papal residence in Castel Gandolfo for a meeting described as “cordial” and focused on the ongoing war in Ukraine. The discussion centered on the diplomatic initiatives currently underway and the conditions necessary for peace. The Holy Father reiterated the importance of maintaining dialogue and renewed his “pressing desire” that global diplomatic efforts may lead to “a just and lasting peace.” The encounter reflects the Vatican’s continued commitment to humanitarian and diplomatic engagement in the conflict.

Donation Commission to the Holy See Abolished

Pope Leo XIV has abolished the Commission for Donations to the Holy See, a body established by Pope Francis in February 2025 and approved ad experimentum for three years. The Pope repealed the norms previously in force, declaring that they will no longer have “any canonical or legal force,” along with all acts issued by the commission since its creation. He further decreed that all assets held by the commission must be transferred directly to the Holy See. The move signals a restructuring aimed at simplifying oversight and ensuring transparency in Vatican financial stewardship.

New Book by Pope Leo XIV Coming in February

Pope Leo XIV will present his vision for “peace, unity, and reconciliation” in his first full-length book, scheduled for publication next year. Titled Peace Be With You: My Words to the Church and to the World, the volume will be released in English and Spanish on February 24. The book collects homilies and addresses delivered since his election on May 8, 2025, and is being published by the same house responsible for works by St. John Paul II and Pope Francis. The release is expected to offer insights into the spiritual and pastoral priorities of the new pontificate.