Dear Sisters and Brothers in Christ: Our Holy Father Pope Francis has called for the 3rd Extraordinary Synod of Bishops for October 2014. The topic to be discussed is “The pastoral challenges for the family in the context of evangelization.” The synod will reflect upon the family as evangelizers and the Church’s teaching on family.

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By Ian Bozant, Contributing Writer How does Mass end? What does the final dismissal mean? At this point in the Mass, we have received the Body and Blood of Christ in Communion and have taken time to reflect in a period of silence that follows.

By Tim Hedrick, Contributing Writer Why do some people not go up to receive Communion during Mass? There are many possible reasons. For example, someone might not be Catholic; someone might not be living in a state of grace (living in mortal sin); someone might be living in an irregular marriage, etc.

By Tim Hedrick, Contributing Writer Who can receive Communion during Mass? In order to preserve the dignity of the Eucharist, the church has established certain guidelines and norms governing the reception of holy Communion.

By Ian Bozant, Contributing Writer What is Communion and what does it mean for us? When most think of the Eucharist, they immediately think of the Mass and the reception of holy Communion, which is an important connection.

By Ian Bozant, Contributing Writer What is the central mystery of the Mass? The celebration of the Mass centers on one central mystery: the change of bread and wine into the Body, Blood, Soul and Divinity of Jesus Christ.

By Ian Bozant, Contributing Writer What is the Sign of Peace? After the Our Father is concluded, the priest prays a prayer directed to Jesus Christ asking him for peace for his Church. This petition for peace is made for the Church as a whole that we may more effectively spread the Gospel, but it is also made for her individual members that they may experience the peace of Christ in their own lives.

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The Marriage Ministry at St. Peter Claver is back. Having served on the recently completed archdiocesan synod, I was keenly aware of the archdiocese’s interest in working to improve relationships in families and marriages.

MARCH 2, 2016 “Why do you want to get married?” It was the first question posed to the group of 30 couples gathered together for the mandatory diocesan marriage prep day. As two people deeply steeped in church-work, Tommy and I could’ve given any number of answers, probably all mostly theologically correct.

In an effort to enhance marriage preparation for engaged couples, the Archdiocese of New Orleans has adopted a new policy, effective July 1, 2016, that calls for couples to meet with a priest or deacon six to eight months before their wedding and increases the Day for the Engaged program from one to two days.

The Clarion Herald Bridal Registry section appears in the June 18, 2016, issue. Featured are stories about the new policy for marriage preparation in the Archdiocese of New Orleans going into effect Sept. 1, the strong marriage ministry at St. Peter Claver Parish and the checklist to help couples plan their wedding in a timely manner.

The newly approved Policies for Marriage Preparation in the Archdiocese of New Orleans will take effect on Sept. 1. (For a detailed review of the new marriage preparation process, see “ Marriage Prep policy to take effect Sept. 1 “.)

On Sept. 1, 2016, the following marriage preparation guidelines will go into effect in the Archdiocese of New Orleans: MARRIAGE PREPARATION PROCESS OVERVIEW The process below will begin at least 6-8 months prior to the wedding date.

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Archdiocese of New Orleans Catholic Directory Listing changes Editorial updates of listings in the Archdiocese of New Orleans Catholic Directory must be sent in writing to Mrs. Jonelle Foltz, editorial coordinator, at jfoltz@clarionherald.org or via fax to (504) 596-3020.