In 1994, the United Nations designated May 15 as the International Day for the Family. To mark this particular day, Msgr. Vicenzo Paglia, the president of the Pontifical Council for the Family, will travel to New York. He will speak before the United Nations, on the modern challenges and needs families face.
MSGR. VICENZO PAGLIA
President, Pontifical Council for the Family
'The family today is living a unique situation, which I would describe as paradoxical. On one side, everyone wants one. Yet, at the same time, families are being destroyed, parents separate, children are abandoned, and the elderly are placed in retirement homes. Even though it's what's sought out, in reality, it's often the most mistreated. We urgently need to reflect on this.â?
Msgr. Paglia said that the family is the most important social resource, but also the one that's often misused. That's why he will ask political and economic leaders to support the family, just like Pope Francis has reiterated time and time again.
MSGR. VICENZO PAGLIA
President, Pontifical Council for the Family
'Pope Francis, with his spiritual and human wisdom, is asking all bishops and parishes to place the family at the center of all concerns. I would like that governments, economists, cultural leaders and lawyers do the same.â?
In a few months, the Synod on the Family will start. It will continue over the course of two years. For Msgr. Paglia, one topic in particular stands out above the rest.
MSGR. VICENZO PAGLIA
President, Pontifical Council for the Family
'Marriage preparation for young people. In a world where culture does not help, it's important to be aware of this. Today, for example, it's hard to think that love could last forever. We confidently say 'forever' to a soccer team, but saying this to a wife or husband becomes more difficult. This means that something isn't working.â?
Msgr. Paglia will also travel to the United States to coordinate the preparations for the next World Gathering of Families, taking place in Philadelphia in 2015. He said that, despite problems and challenges, having a family is one of the most rewarding experiences, and that must be celebrated and not taken for granted.
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