At his weekly general audience, Pope Francis today asked the crowd to pray for the upcoming Synod of Bishops. Beginning on Sunday and ending on October 19, the Synod fathers will discuss the challenges facing families today. The pope also spoke about the many gifts of the Holy Spirit. 'Today let us ask the Lord to help us recognize with gratitude this great outpouring of spiritual gifts which enables the Church to persevere in faith, to grow in grace and to be an ever more credible sign and witness of God’s infinite love. In a particular way, may each of us consider the special gifts he or she has received, and how we choose to use those gifts to advance the Church’s unity, life and mission in the world,' Pope Francis said. | Around 150 people, mostly bishops from across the globe, gather in the Vatican for the Synod to discuss the pastoral challenges of the family in the context of evangelization. Read more on the News.va site here. |