Familiaris Consortio by John Paul II

Familiaris Consortio written by Pope John Paul II discusses the sacred of marriage and family in the Catholic Church. In today's society it is easy to lose sight of what marriage is, it is often rushed and based on materialistic objects such as wealth, appearance and social acceptance. This document begins by reminding us of the true meaning of marriage and family, it is important to realize that marriage is not just a union of two people but a bond that holds the key to true happiness and fulfillment in life. It is important that an individual "achieves self-realization according to his or her original truth" before making the commitment of marriage.

Humans were created by God from love, it is instilled in us and we have the responsibility to promote this love through marriage and family. "It is realized in a truly human way only if it is an integral part of the love by which a man and a woman commit themselves totally to one another until death". In order to achieve this kind of love in a marriage it is crucial that the individuals are willing to give themselves completely to one another. It is with their faith in God and his blessing that this bond is strengthened. "Spouses are the permanent reminder to the Church of what happened on the Cross", by their commitment to each other. The ultimate "living reflection of their love" is their children.

The Synod points out four "general tasks for the family" which are forming a community of persons, serving life, participating in the development of society and sharing in the life and mission of the Church. First, forming a community of persons is referred to as the family which is founded and given life by love. To have a happy family it has to be based of love, followed by understanding, communicating and care. Most importantly the husband and wife have to respect one another weather it is intellectually or career vise. Sick children need to be taken care of, especially when handicapped. Above all, the elderly need to be cared for, they hold all the "wisdom for the young and for the future". Second, serving life describes educating children about the catholic believes. It is important for them to be though respect for others as well as to know that church stands for life. Today children are exposed to a variety of materialistic things, it is important that they learn the difference between necessity and desire. Thirdly, participating in the development of society, it is significant to teach them about the harsh reality of drugs, alcohol and terrorism. From that they can learn how to better the world and "grow wiser". This should continue with education about the environment and community. Lastly, sharing the life and mission of the church, exposes children to the church and teaches them about God from an early age. "While building up the Church in love, the Christian family places itself at the service