Background on the Synod
The Pastoral Challenges of the Family in the Context of Evangelization
Updates on the October 5-19, 2014 III Extraordinary General Assembly of the Synod of Bishops Meeting in Rome

Pope Francis convoked the III Extraordinary General Assembly of the Synod of Bishops to treat the topic: The Pastoral Challenges of the Family in the Context of Evangelization. The Holy Father has determined that the work of Synod of Bishops is to take place in two stages, forming an single organic unity. In the III Extraordinary General Assembly, October 5-19th, 2014, the synod fathers will thoroughly examine and analyze the information, testimonies and recommendations received from the particular Churches (contained in the Working Document) in order to respond to the new challenges of the family. The Ordinary General Assembly in 2015, representing a great part of the episcopate and continuing the work of the previous synod, will reflect further on the points discussed so as to formulate appropriate pastoral guidelines.

Pope Francis' Homily at the Vigil the night before the Synod began.

Pope Francis' Homily at Opening Mass of the Synod

Video of Opening Mass

The Working Document for the
Synod on the Family: Oct. 5-19.

The introduction page to the document, explaining the Synod

How the Synod Will Work