SYNOD ON THE FAMILY
Oct. 5-19, 2014
OFFICIAL IMAGE FOR
THE SYNOD OF THE
FAMILY 2014
WHAT IS A SYNOD?
• SYNDOD = a meeting of Bishops from around the world with the Pope in
order to discuss matters important to the life of the Church.
• https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=_Z8h7ap2jrQ&list=UU7ELYc1wivk33iyt5bR5zQ&src_vid=e3kQeHnDHyc&feature=iv&annotation_id=an
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THE 5 POINTS BEING DISCUSSED
1. LANGUAGE USED BY THE CHURCH
2. GRADUALITY which refers to the unique path people take in their
search for God. For some people it's immediate, with others it's a
process.
3. OFFENSE VS. DEFENSE The notion of focusing on offense instead of
defense was also touched on. Highlighting the good in promoting
family life, instead of the challenges.
4. SEXUALITY AND SPIRITUALITY
5. HISTORICAL ROOTS The historical connection between the Church
and family should also be highlighted. Meaning, the role the Church
has played in promoting family life and therefore in promoting a
strong fabric of society.
• http://www.romereports.com/pg158620-synod-on-the-family-top-5-points-discussed-en
SPEAK YOUR MIND!
• Pope Francis asks all at the
conference, including 13 married
couples from different parts of the
world, to speak their mind and not
hold back. He told them not to be
worried about “offending him” – but
to speak what is truly in their hearts.
• http://www.romereports.com/pg1585
86-pope-francis-to-the-synodoespeak-clearly-do-not-think-thereare-issues-that-cannot-be-discusseden
• http://www.romereports.com/pg1586
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PRAY! PRAY! PRAY!
• Pope Francis asks the Church throughout the world
to pray fervently for this Synod. He warned us that
“The devil wants to destroy humanity – wants to
destroy families.” Therefore, we must all pray and
work hard to promote love and peace in our
families.
• On Friday, Oct. 17th, Marian will have a day of prayer
for our families, and for families throughout the world.
During adoration we will pray as Pope Francis has
asked. In the meantime, let us join our prayers daily
to pray with the Pope and all the members of the
Synod for the outpouring of the Holy Spirit on this
great event!
• We encourage you to share this news with your
family and pray together for the success of this
Synod.
• http://www.romereports.com/pg158595-popefrancis-may-this-synod-oeheal-bleeding-woundsand-rekindle-hope-en
Our Lady at Fatima asked us to pray
the rosary daily for peace in our world
and in our families. Will you take up
her challenge?
HOMEWORK
•Write 2 paragraphs (4-5 sentences)
each telling me what you learned
about the synod and what you think
about it.
•Then write a 5-sentence prayer for
YOUR family.