This week on “Inside the Vatican,” Gerry and I discuss the first four women to be named to the Vatican’s office for synods. We talk about who these women are, how women’s involvement in Vatican leadership is changing, and what positions may be opened to women next.

Then, we unpack the most recent developments in the case of former Cardinal Theodore McCarrick. After the Archdiocese of New York found credible accusations that McCarrick had abused a minor, heated debate began over who knew what when about McCarrick’s misconduct. Correspondence leaked this week by McCarrick’s former secretary complicate the story, so on this episode, Gerry and I parse what we now know about each of the last three popes’ awareness of McCarrick’s case.

Finally, the pope is traveling to Romania this weekend. Gerry tells us briefly what to expect.

Links from the show:

• October 2018: Why can’t women vote at the Synod on Young People?

Reuters: Pope names women to key Vatican department for first time

Former secretary says officials knew McCarrick’s ministry was restricted

In Mexican TV interview, Pope Francis denies knowing of McCarrick restrictions

Pope Francis is visiting Romania. Here’s what to expect.

Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices