The image used by Cardinal Vincent Nichols for the various stages of the Synod on the Family was that of a Symphony with various movements. We are now in the “quiet movement” stage. Once the working document from the Extraordinary Synod Secretariat has been received, each Bishops’ Conference will decide how best to engage the local church in reflecting on the important issues raised.
The Ordinary Synod next October has as its theme “The vocation and mission of the family in the Church and the contemporary world”. It will continue the work of the Extraordinary general assembly of the Synod of Bishops by “reflecting on the points discussed so as to formulate appropriate pastoral guidelines”.
The full text of Cardinal Vincent Nichols’ written submission prior to the Extraordinary Synod on the Family in Rome in October can be downloaded from the top right hand corner of this page
