Pope Francis has named Cardinal Peter Erdo, Archbishop of Esztergom-Budapest in Hungary, as Relator General of the III Extraordinary General Assembly of the Synod of Bishops which will take place in the Vatican next year from October 5th -19th. The Holy Father also named Archbishop Bruno Forte of Chieti-Vasto, Italy, as Special Secretary of the synod.
The synod, which was convened by the Holy Father on October 8th, will reflect on the theme “The Pastoral Challenges of the Family in the Context of the Evangelization.”
“In convening this Synod, Pope Francis wishes to continue the reflection and journey of the whole Church, with the participation of leaders of the Episcopate from every corner of the world.” Fr. Lombardi said in a statement after the Holy See’s announcement of the Extraordinary Synod of Bishops.
“It is important that the Church move forward together as a community, in reflection and prayer, and decide on common pastoral orientations dealing with the most important aspects of our life together – particularly on the family – under the guidance of the Pope and the bishops. The convening of this Extraordinary Synod is a clear indication of this direction.
Cardinal Erdo will be responsible for stating the goals of the Synod during an address that is delivered during the first day of the Synod. He will also gather the results of the discussions that will take place. Archbishop Forte’s role as special secretary will be to assist the Relator General in his reports of the discussions during the Synod of Bishops.
