Marriage and the family are in crisis. In October 2015, a Synod of Bishops will meet in the Vatican to discuss thisimportant subject. In preparation for the event, elevenCardinals from around the world have written powerfulessays on some of the problems to be discussed: the challengeof providing adequate marriage preparation in a secularizedworld; the need for evangelization and conversion; the relationshipbetween charity and truth; the situation of divorcedand civilly remarried Catholics; and the demands of authenticpastoral care.The authors understand that doctrine and pastoral ministryare not opposed to one another. They carefully steer a wiseand merciful course that engages genuine concerns, whileavoiding false compassion, which compromises both truth andauthentic love.This book serves as both a concise introduction to the forthcomingSynod and a helpful guide to applying Christ's teachingto the pastoral care of families. Long after the Synod, theseessays will remain valuable for anyone wanting to understandand to proclaim the Gospel of the Family.