Synod on the Family

From Oct. 5-19, all eyes will be on Rome as the Synod of Bishops convene and address Pastoral Challenges to the Family in the Context of Evangelization. It is a preparatory session bringing together presidents of national bishops’ conferences, heads of Eastern Catholic Churches, and Vatican officials ahead of a larger Synod of Bishops to take place in 2015. 

The additional participants include a dozen or more voting members named by the pope, three priests chosen by an umbrella group of men’s religious orders, a dozen or more expert advisers, about a dozen representatives of other Christian churches, and up to 30 observers – more than half comprised of married couples who will be encouraged to address the assembly. 

This synod will address issues pertaining to marriage, family, and sexual morality – including those that are controversial both within and outside the Church – the themes are those that the majority of Catholics deal with every day in the real world. 

Here is a video from Salt and Light TV that prepares us for the Synod - showcasing Salt & Light's multi-lingual staff:

Prayer of Pope Francis for the Synod

Jesus, Mary and Joseph,
in you we contemplate
the splendour of true love,
to you we turn with trust.

Holy Family of Nazareth,
grant that our families too
may be places of communion and prayer,
authentic schools of the Gospel
and small domestic Churches.

Holy Family of Nazareth,
may families never again
experience violence, rejection and division:
may all who have been hurt or scandalized
find ready comfort and healing.
Holy Family of Nazareth,
may the approaching Synod of Bishops
make us once more mindful
of the sacredness and inviolability of the family,
and its beauty in God’s plan.

Jesus, Mary and Joseph,
graciously hear our prayer.


Amen.

Peace