The 2018 agreement, extended twice previously, was an attempt under Pope Francis to bridge long-standing differences over control of the church in China. There have been disagreements since, but they have so far not derailed the fragile rapprochement.
"This is just one synod. There will be others. We do not have to do everything, just take the next step," Cardinal-designate Timothy Radcliffe said, and those who come after will "go on beginning. How, we do not know. That is God's business."
Cardinal Víctor Manuel Fernández told synod delegates that the study into female diaconate would continue, but insisted that questions on women's leadership in the Catholic Church should not be linked to ordination.
The scope of group five includes "theological and canonical matters regarding specific ministerial forms" and, in particular, "theological and pastoral research on the access of women to the diaconate."
Francis, the comic strip: Gabby and Brother Leo worry the world's problems will endanger the pope's health. But they note that Francis remains confident that God is in charge.
Italian Cardinal Matteo Zuppi of Bologna, Pope Francis' envoy for peace in Ukraine, returned to Moscow in mid-October for meetings with Russian government officials and leaders of the Russian Orthodox Church.