On April 8, Pope Francis released what is called a post-synodal exhortation. Under the title Amoris Laetitia (The Joy of Love: On Love in the Family), it is the document traditionally issued by the Pope following the periodic gatherings of bishops of the world in synods held in Rome. Such synods are gatherings held to advise the Holy Father on topics that he chooses.

As you may recall, Pope Francis recently convened not one but two synods of bishops. One met in October of 2014 and a second one met last October to continue the discussions begun the previous year. Both dealt with a topic that has been front and center in the teaching and concern of Pope Francis. That is, the challenges that confront the family.

When a papal document such as Amoris Laetitia first comes out, there is often an expected set of responses or reactions. The first articles and comments that we read or hear are often general impressions. They come from the first quick read. They do not necessarily deal with nuances or subtleties in the document.

Next, we often are presented with interpretations from those who read such a document through a lens of their own particular interest. There is nothing wrong with that. But they will highlight only isolated references which support their particular view such as, for example, those related to the environment, migration or pro-life.

Another category of commentary to expect comes from the inevitable critics either of the Church or of the Holy Father. These too should not surprise us. Jesus Himself encountered many who simply would not accept Him. Why should His Church today be any different?

Finally, over time, other comments and observations will flow from the fruit of calm study and prayerful reflection. These observations of such a document seek to discover the clear reflection of Christ’s own teaching that cannot be lacking in the Church. They also seek the connection to the past statements of teaching and faith witnessed by the Church. Such mature reflections recognize that the Holy Spirit guides the Church in every age and cannot be contradicted.

Recognizing this process and the jumble of commentary that is sure to follow, I would offer my own thoughts for prayer and consideration.

First, it is the nature of post-synodal exhortations to directly reflect the work of the synods from which they flow. Amoris Laetitia is no exception. Pope Francis richly cites the proposals and observations of the bishops gathered from all over the world. Their experiences and the challenges, as well as the joys, of family life constitute the bulk of the document.

Pope Francis made this explicitly clear in the document, saying, “I must also say that the synod process proved both impressive and illuminating … . The various interventions of the synod Fathers, to which I paid close heed, made up, as it were, a multifaceted gem reflecting many legitimate concerns and honest questions.” (N. 4)

The Church’s faith and understanding with regard to the family flows from its long history of reflection and prayer. Our teaching is not new, it is not changeable. That too is reflected in the document.

As Pope Francis himself states, “The teaching of the Master (see Mt 22:30) and St. Paul (see 1 Cor 7:29-31) on marriage is set — and not by chance — in the context of the ultimate and definitive dimension of our human existence. We urgently need to rediscover the richness of this teaching.” (N. 325)

Finally, in keeping with one of the major themes of his pontificate, Pope Francis calls for accompaniment of those who are struggling with problems of marriage and family in a world that often does not support marriage or is even hostile to it.

For this reason, Amoris Laetitia states, “ ‘In considering a pastoral approach towards people who have contracted a civil marriage, who are divorced and remarried, or simply living together, the Church has the responsibility of helping them understand the divine pedagogy of grace in their lives and offering them assistance so they can reach the fullness of God’s plan for them,’ something which is always possible by the power of the Holy Spirit.” (N. 297)

I hope everyone will have a chance to read this document. Even more, I hope the whole Church will take the opportunity to pray and reflect upon God’s plan for marriage and family. It is not too much to say that the family today is in crisis. Pope Francis and the Church are making great efforts to help us all to recognize and respond to those challenges.