Pope Francis met with the academic community of the Pontifical John Paul II Theological Institute for Marriage and Family Sciences at the Vatican, encouraging them to continue collaborating with academics and cultural institutions to support Catholic spouses and families better. The Pope emphasized the importance of developing a “critical understanding” of the anthropological and cultural challenges affecting marriage and family life today.
The Pope also stressed the need for spiritual accompaniment of unmarried couples who live together and “postpone their marriage commitment, as well as divorced and remarried people.” He emphasized that the Church does not close the door to those who struggle on the path of faith but opens it wide, providing merciful and encouraging pastoral care.
Pope Francis praised the institute’s work in promoting the “Gospel of the family,” particularly in countries where public authorities do not respect the dignity and freedom of every human being. He emphasized the importance of the evangelizing witness of Catholic families, which helps everyone seek what is in conformity with humanity and the desire for salvation.
The Pontifical John Paul II Theological Institute for Marriage and Family Sciences was formed in 2017, following Pope Francis’ motu proprio Summa familiae cura. The institute is affiliated with the Dicastery for Culture and Education, the Pontifical Academy for Life, and the Dicastery for Laity, Family and Life.