Synod on the Family

This Sunday will see the start of a Synod of Bishops in Rome that could become one of the defining moments for the Papacy of Pope Francis. An interim document during last year's Synod had led some to believe that the Vatican might ultimately agree a more liberal approach towards homosexuality and perhaps the taking of Holy Communion by remarried divorcees who had not first been granted an annulment.  Other issues include clerical sexual abuse and the ordination of women. However, Synod is not a democracy. All it can do is discuss and put forward recommendations and a summary of its findings.  After that, it will be up to Pope Francis to weigh up the opinions expressed, and to write an "Apostolic Exhortation" to the entire Roman Catholic Church. The Pope faces strong opposition. Good luck, as we need some changes.