The Catholic Church in the United States continues to develop ministries for families, including those facing infertility, child loss, and domestic violence, a decade after Pope Francis released “Amoris Laetitia,” according to Julia Dezelski of the U.S. Conference of Catholic Bishops. Dezelski said on Mar. 16 that new efforts also focus on caregiving for elderly relatives and supporting foster and adoptive families.
The document “Amoris Laetitia” was issued in April 2016 as a papal exhortation addressing married life, love, children, education, and challenges faced by families. It called for integrating wounded or marginalized families into church life. Dezelski said, “‘Amoris Laetitia’ emphasized the need for the Church to meet families in every situation of need. These ministries are doing this.”
While some church leaders praised the document’s approach to pastoral care, others criticized ambiguities regarding divorced Catholics in new civil unions and their reception of the Eucharist. Despite ongoing debate among theologians and leaders about these issues, many dioceses have implemented local guidance based on “Amoris Laetitia.” The Diocese of San Diego used it as a basis for a synod that led to creating a department focused on family life.
In 2021, the U.S. bishops approved “Called to the Joy of Love: National Pastoral Framework for Marriage and Family Life Ministry” to help dioceses with planning inspired by “Amoris Laetitia.” The framework states: “God’s plan for marriage and family life corresponds to the deepest desires of men and women for lasting happiness and true joy.” It outlines four pillars for ministry with families along with recommendations covering nearly all areas of pastoral care.
Mary-Rose Verret of Witness to Love noted that while her marriage preparation program predates “Amoris Laetitia,” its approach aligns with calls from the document for parish-based formation involving mentors chosen by couples themselves. She said decision-makers became more open to new ideas after its release: “We saw that people who were…open to a conversation…maybe we need to revisit that.” In 2025, Witness to Love saw a significant increase in use.
However, experts working with divorced Catholics say more needs to be done. Patty Breen McNeil said: “I think ‘Amoris Laetitia’ was opening the door. I think we have to still walk through the door.” Lisa Duffy added that misunderstandings remain about annulment timelines: “I’ve spoken with people who believe the annulment process across the board now only takes 30 days…they’re surprised when they hear that’s not the case.” Both McNeil and Duffy stressed that recognizing divorced Catholics is essential so they feel seen within their parishes.
Looking ahead, Dezelski observed that understanding family as a domestic church is still developing: “There are signs that the family is becoming better understood and appreciated as a domestic church…the unpacking of what this means…is still underway.”
