Prelates attend a mass presided over by Pope Francis and concelebrated by the new cardinals for the start of the XVI General Assembly of the Synod of Bishops in St. Peter's Square at The Vatican, Wednesday, Oct. 4, 2023. Pope Francis is convening a global gathering of bishops and laypeople to discuss the future of the Catholic Church, including some hot-button issues that have previously been considered off the table for discussion. Key agenda items include women's role in the church, welcoming LGBTQ+ Catholics, and how bishops exercise authority. For the first time, women and laypeople can vote on specific proposals alongside bishops. (AP Photo/Andrew Medichini)