Pope considering women deacons

VATICAN CITY (WLS) -- Pope Francis has set up a panel to look at whether women could serve as deacons, signalling a possible change in the role of women for the Catholic Church.

Currently that's a job reserved for men. According to the Vatican, Pope francis established the panel after, "Intense prayer and mature reflection."

The commission is made up of six men and six women.

Married men who serve as deacons can preach and preside at weddings, baptisms and funerals.

Chicago Archbishop Blase Cupich said in a statement: "From the earliest days of the church, women rightly served in key leadership roles. Still, the church must do better. Women deserve to be brought more fully into the decision making of the church."