Marriage and family are in crisis. In October 2015, a Synod of Bishops will meet in the Vatican to discuss this important subject. In preparation for this event, eleven Cardinals from around the world have written essays on some of the problems to be discussed: the challenge of providing adequate marriage preparation in a secularized world; the need for evangelization and conversion; the relationship between charity and truth; the situation of divorced and civilly remarried Catholics; and the demands of authentic pastoral care. The authors understand that doctrine and pastoral ministry are not opposed to one another. They carefully steer a course that engages genuine concerns while avoiding false compassion. This book serves as both a concise introduction to the forthcoming Synod and a helpful guide to applying Christ's teaching to the pastoral care of families.--