St Mary’s Cathedral focuses on Amoris Laetitia and Family Life

Apr 12, 2025

By Evelyn Jock
The Cathedral of St Mary’s Parish Pastoral Council, dedicated to fostering pastoral activities and advancing the caring mission of Christ through the Gospel, organised its 5th Parish Pastoral Assembly on March 22. The assembly brought together parish priest Fr Simon J. Kontou, assistant parish priest Fr Mitchelly Kiun, Deacon Ricki Boy Hasim, religious sisters, ministry leaders, group representatives, couples, and singles, all united in reflection and prayer.

The assembly focused on Amoris Laetitia – The Joy of Love, an apostolic document by Pope Francis. This important document, which addresses key issues related to marriage and family life, was presented by the clergy and members of the Parish Pastoral Council. The gathering included Conversations in the Spirit, that allowed the community to delve deeper into these topics through active listening, sharing personal experiences, and discerning God’s Will together.

Fr Simon officially opened the assembly, recalling that the first Parish Pastoral Assembly took place in 2018, with 80 attendees from various parishes. He also highlighted that in 2014 and 2015, the Catholic Church held two Synods focusing on the vocation and role of the family in both the Church and the world. These Synods culminated in the 2016 publication of Amoris Laetitia – The Joy of Love.

Fr Simon explained that the assembly embraced the themes of Amoris Laetitia, which addresses the complex realities families face today, including challenges such as separation, divorce, cohabitation, and the decision not to have children. He emphasised that due to the depth and complexity of Amoris Laetitia, it should be read and studied slowly. He encouraged all participants to recognise the significance of the assembly, to fully engage in the experience, and to allow it to enrich their spiritual lives, both now and in the future.

Amoris Laetitia calls on the Church to meet people where they are, acknowledging the complexities and brokenness in their lives. Today, many families are burdened by the difficult issues of the world, and some may feel alienated or excommunicated. The Church, however, must address these challenges and work to integrate all individuals into the community. Amoris Laetitia takes us on a journey through the joys and struggles of marriage and family life, emphasising that the vocation of marriage is a gift from God and is indissoluble. While not everyone will enter into the vocation of marriage — such as clergy and religious brothers and sisters — it remains a central calling for many. The document also highlights the pastoral care of families and the education of children. At the same time, Amoris Laetitia stresses the importance of prayer, faith, and the pursuit of holiness.

How wonderful it would be if the teachings of Amoris Laetitia not only resonate with the participants of this assembly but also reach a broader audience within the Church, inspiring more to understand and embrace the Catholic Church’s call for love, compassion, and unity.