The word \u201cSynod\u201d (or \u201cSynodus\u201d in Latin) means \u201ctaking a path together.\u201d<\/strong> \u00a0Participants will come together from around the world for the Extraordinary General Assembly of the Synod of Bishops. \u00a0The theme of their discussions will be \u201cPastoral Challenges to the Family in the Context of Evangelization.\u201d \u00a0Their aim, according to the Vatican Information Service, will be<\/p>\n \u201cto propose to today\u2019s world the beauty and the values of the family, which emerge from the proclamation of Jesus Christ Who disperses fear and supports hope.\u201d<\/em><\/p><\/blockquote>\n Of the 253 participants announced this morning, nine are Americans. \u00a0The five cardinals and archbishops participating are:<\/p>\n In addition, four Americans are among the auditors who have been invited to be present. \u00a0They are:<\/p>\n The Vatican Information Service explained that the list of participants for the Extraordinary Synod in 2014 is drawn from the five continents, and is subdivided as follows:<\/p>\n Other participants include<\/p>\n According to today\u2019s press release,<\/p>\n In the dynamic of the renewal of the Church ordered by Pope Francis, the updating of the institution of the Synod is explained in particular in the preparatory process and in the process of the Assemblies themselves. This project, initiated with the convocation of the Synod Assembly, is developing in a new and renewed way, with concrete actions. The criterion for renewal is that of first painting the picture and then adding the frame. The rules in force provide the track along which the train of renewal proceeds. As we go ahead, the steps necessary for changing the rules or eventually setting about a full reconstruction of the Synod as an entity will become evident.<\/span><\/span><\/span><\/em><\/p>\n
\nNews from the Vatican this morning,<\/strong> where Cardinal Lorenzo Baldisseri, secretary general of the Synod of Bishops, has just announced the names of 253 individuals who will participate in the upcoming Synod which will be held October 5-19, 2014.<\/p>\n\n
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