Marriage and the Family
The “Anthropological Question” and the Evangelization of the Family

Rome, March 12-13, 2015

In the final document of the Extraordinary Synod on the Family, the Synod Fathers highlighted the anthropological question as central to understanding the family and in giving practical responses to the crisis that it suffers in today’s society: “Faithful to Christ’s teaching, we look to the reality of the family today in all its complexity, with both its lights and shadows (…). Anthropological and cultural changes in our times influence all aspects of life and require an analytic and diversified approach” (n. 5).
Moreover, as Pope Francis himself said, in the process of the rediscovery of the “Gospel of the Family” the anthropological question is a necessary element for carrying out a truly effective pastoral care of the family.

Taking a cue from these suggestions, the School of Canon Law, with the participation of other Schools of the Pontifical University of the Holy Cross, has decided to organize this Interdisciplinary Conference on Marriage and the Family during this period between Synods.
The Conference will attempt to make a constructive contribution to the reflections of the Church on Marriage and the Family. The common feature of the different contributions will be the study of the “anthropological question” that emerges in the different fields of knowledge: from Theological and Philosophical Anthropology to Sacramental Theology, Canon Law of Marriage, and the Pastoral Care of Marriage.

Besides presentations on anthropological, theological and juridical issues, there will also be time dedicated to practical sessions in which experts working in the field will present initiatives that have produced abundant fruit in two areas: marriage preparation and accompaniment of the married couples in their journey together, in both good and trying times.

English, Spanish and German translation will be available