20220105T0830-POPE-AUDIENCE-JOSEPH-FATHER-1515163.JPG

Pope Francis greets nuns during his general audience in the Paul VI hall at the Vatican Jan. 5. Francis has said women religious play an essential role in the synodal process through their prayers and participation and by listening to people not usually part of such church activities. (CNS photo/Paul Haring)
Pope Francis greets nuns during his general audience in the Paul VI hall at the Vatican Jan. 5. Francis has said women religious play an essential role in the synodal process. (CNS photo/Paul Haring)