This document was presented ten years ago, sparking widespread intrigue. It was the culmination of two consecutive Synods on the Family and would become one of the cornerstones of Pope Francis’s papacy.
Amoris Laetitia calls on Catholics to promote the beauty of marriage and to help couples face the challenges of life together.
It promotes a welcoming environment for those who have experienced a marital breakup, addressing these situations on a case-by-case basis. And it proposes “discernment,” that is, addressing doubts of conscience in the company of a priest in order to recognize one’s situation before God.
Ten years and a few controversies later, Pope Leo XIV has decided to convene a meeting at the Vatican with all the presidents of episcopal conferences and heads of Eastern Catholic Churches, along with experts from various countries.
MSGR. MILTON TRÓCCOLI
President of the Uruguayan Episcopal Conference
It’s not about celebrating a document, but rather about looking at the situation of the family, which he clearly wants to make the focus of pastoral care today, and, well, in light of Amoris Laetitia from 10 years ago, how to adapt it to today’s context, and what the challenges are for the family and for family ministry.
The meeting began with an exhortation from the pope and a meditation. Then, each day, the bishops organize themselves into language-based working groups to discuss a specific topic.
They are working on five topics, focusing on one per day. These include Families Today: Reality, Beauty, and Challenges; Young People and the Vocation to Marriage; Married Life: The Early Years, A Decisive Time; In the Difficulties of Life: Accompanying and Supporting; and finally, Christian Families, the Subject of the Church’s Mission.
Each day, they listen to a reflection, exchange opinions, and draft a summary. All of this is in line with the pope’s guidance in the opening: it is not merely a matter of “interpreting” realities, but of allowing them to challenge us and inspire a sense of pastoral responsibility.
MSGR. MILTON TRÓCCOLI
President of the Uruguayan Episcopal Conference
The idea is to conclude these meetings with a summary document, not one intended for publication, but a working document that the Pope and the Dicastery for Laity, Family, and Life can use as a basis for drafting an updated version of Amoris Laetitia.
The gathering on Amoris Laetitia concluded with a concelebrated Mass in St. Peter's Square. The pope was expected to attend, but after his surgery was announced, it was reported that Pope Leo XIV would not be joining them for the closing ceremony.
