The upcoming Synod of Bishops will be unique compared to previous synods. The Synod will see a much broader participation in order to confront the challenges faced by families.
Cardinal Lorenzo Baldisseri the Secretary General of the Synod of Bishops, outlined the schedule in the coming weeks.
The 2 week meeting will not only see the participation of 191 Syndol Fathers, consisting of Cardinals, Archbishops and Patriarchs. It will also consist of experts and families within the Church.
CARD. LORENZO BALDISSERI
Sec. General, Synod of Bishops
'Since it is an Assembly that will deal with the family, particular attention will be given to married couples, parents and heads of families. There are a total 12 couples who will participate. Also, among the Experts will be present a married couple.â?
Technology will play an important role in keeping the world informed on what will be discussed in the Synod.
Vatican spokesman, Fr. Federico Lombardi, said that news from the Synod Hall will be live tweeted from the Press Office's Twitter account (@HolySeePress). There will also be daily reports from key players within the Synod of Bishops.
FR. FEDERICO LOMBARDI
Vatican Spokesman
'There will also be a series of audio and video interviews with the Fathers that will take place throughout those days in the atrium of the Synod Hall. Salt & Light Television, Vatican Radio and technicians from ROME REPORTS will help us.â?
Cardinal Baldisseri informed journalists that the Synod will conclude with the beatification of Pope Paul VI on October 19th. He noted the importance of the Pontiff, especially in this upcoming Synod.
CARD. LORENZO BALDISSERI
Sec. General, Synod of Bishops
'This beatification, in the context of this Synod, constitutes an importance sign of collegiality, because this great Pontiff of the 20th century not only guided the conclusion of the Second Vatican Council, but he also instituted the Synod of Bishops.â?
The work of the Bishops will be accompanied by the prayers of the faithful. Throughout the Synod, a Cardinal or Bishop will celebrate a Mass at the Basilica of St. Mary Major for the family every evening.
The relics of Saints and Blesseds, known for their sanctity in family life will be present at the Basilica. Among them are the relics of Blessed Marie-Azélie Guérin and Louis Martin, along with those of their daughter, St. Therese of Lisieux.
JAE
RR
FA
-PR
Up: AC