Brazilian Catholic bishops gather in Brasília for pastoral formation

From June 29 to July 2, the National Pastoral Family meeting was held at Casa Dom Luciano in Brasília, organized by the CNBB’s Commission Pastoral Life and Family. The event, themed “Updating the Theology of Marriage in Amoris Laetitia” with the motto “Love never ends,” brought together bishops, priests and pastoral advisers from across Brazil. The Diocese of Petrópolis was represented by Father Manoel Gouvêa, who participated in formation sessions and discussions on challenges to marriage and family ministry. Lectures were given by Father Jonas Emerim Velho on the apostolic exhortation Amoris Laetitia.

From July 6 to July 10, the CNBB hosted a separate week‑long formation for 16 bishops newly appointed between July 2025 and June 2026. Organized by the Episcopal Commission for Ordained Ministries and Consecrated Life, the meeting aimed to equip the newcomers with theological, liturgical and administrative training and to foster mutual exchange among bishops from diverse regions, including Fortaleza, São Paulo and other dioceses. Topics covered priest shortages, evangelisation, diocesan finances, canonical law and the role of the laity. The program will be followed by a Vatican gathering of newly appointed bishops from various countries.