Archbishop Charles J. Chaput, O.F.M. Cap. has invited all people to participate in a worldwide Day of Prayer on Sunday, September 28th for the Synod of Bishops on the Family. This Extraordinary General Assembly of the Synod of Bishops will take place from October 5 – 19 in Vatican City on topics related to the pastoral challenges to the family and evangelization.

Churches, parish communities and institutes of consecrated life within the Archdiocese are invited to pray during celebration of the Sacred Liturgy and devotional prayer, especially in adoration of the Most Blessed Sacrament, in the days preceding and during the work of the Synod. The faithful, especially families, are encouraged to include this intention in their personal prayers and to pray the Holy Rosary for the work of the Synod.

The prayer for the Synod of Bishops on the Family composed by Pope Francis follows:

Jesus, Mary and Joseph,
in you we contemplate
the splendor of true love,
to you we turn with trust.

Holy Family of Nazareth,
grant that our families too
may be places of communion and prayer,
authentic schools of the Gospel
and small domestic Churches.

Holy Family of Nazareth,
may families never again
experience violence, rejection and division:
may all who have been hurt or scandalized
find ready comfort and healing.

Holy Family of Nazareth,
may the approaching Synod of Bishops
make us once more mindful
of the sacredness and inviolability of the family,
and its beauty in God’s plan.

Jesus, Mary and Joseph,
graciously hear our prayer.

Editor’s Note: More information on the Synods of Bishops on the Family can be found here: http://usccb.org/issues-and-action/marriage-and-family/2014-2015-synods-of-bishops-on-the-family.cfm

Contact
Stephanie Brophy
Associate Director of Communications
215-587-3747