World News
Mixing it up: Synod members turn to metaphor to get message across
Pope Francis may be the universal church's undisputed master of metaphor and analogy, but other members of the Synod of Bishops on the family are showing a willingness to use snappy images to get their points across, too.
U.S. couple at synod calls for ‘robust, creative’ family programs
Existing diocesan programs and Catholic organizations aimed at helping Catholic families fulfill their vocation clearly are not strong enough to meet modern needs, a Wisconsin couple told the Synod of Bishops.
On sexual and medical ethics, synod fathers speak of ‘graduality’
In their discussions of sexual and medical ethics, participants at the Synod of Bishops on the family are giving emphasis to the concept of "graduality," as a way of thinking about morality that allows for human imperfection without compromising ideals.
Speakers tell pope, synod that parishes should welcome same-sex couples
A married couple told Pope Francis and the Synod of Bishops on the family that Catholic parishes should welcome same-sex couples, following the example of parents who invite their son and his male partner to their home for Christmas.
Debate emerges over St. John Paul II’s early writings
A book of lectures the pope penned as a young priest in Poland, "The Catholic Social Ethic," shows a detailed knowledge of Marxism and at least some empathy with its strident critique of capitalism.
Synod members called to seek unity in diversity, cardinal says
The Greek root of the word "synod" means "to walk together," which is exactly what bishops and other members of the Synod of Bishops are called to do as they seek to apply the Gospel and church teaching to the challenges facing family life today, said the gathering's general secretary.
Vatican summit says extremists must be stopped with sanctioned force
Pope Francis convened the Vatican summit Oct. 2-4 because of his growing concern and desire to do something about the situation Christians and other minorities are facing in the Middle East.
On eve of family synod, pope prays for ‘open and fraternal’ debate
Hours before opening a Synod of Bishops whose members have already started a public debate over Catholic teaching on marriage and sexuality, Pope Francis prayed the bishops would express themselves and listen to each other openly, trusting in God to reconcile their differences.
Blessed married couples, St. Therese of Lisieux, highlighted at synod
The first two married couples beatified as couples and St. Therese of Lisieux were being honored during the extraordinary Synod of Bishops on the Family.
Pope urges participation in Caritas anti-hunger campaign
Christians cannot follow Jesus while turning away from people who are hungry, Pope Francis said.