They themselves have a part to play in the life of the community. Indeed many, from the experience of their own suffering, are already ministering to fellow parishioners trying to cope with their marriage relationships . We applaud this Christ-like concern, itself a sign of faithfulness. We feel sure that you, who have been victims of marriage breakdown, are called to share your courage and faith with those who find themselves on a similar journey. Top M ERCY All of us, sharing in the priesthood of Jesus by reason of our baptism, are to minister to one another in love characterised by mercy.
Mercy is the unifying and elevating power that makes compassion possible.
Be especially respectful of the conscience and convictions of one another. In reaching out to our separated, divorced and remarried Catholics, we offer an assurance that you are loved. If your present difficulties sometimes seem insoluble, we pray that the care with which you are held in your respective parish communities, will be the seed of hope and joy in your own lives, and that you will find peace. The soothing touch of Jesus comes in the spirit of hospitality, which, ideally, enlivens every parish. Compassion has little to do with pity, or simply feeling sorry for the other.