In a world witnessing changing trends in marriage, the true depth and breadth of Catholic marriage has become cutting-edge.

Thus Pope Francis in Amoris Laetitia, with the world’s bishops, appealed for a renewed and revitalised approach to equipping young people for Catholic marriage and supporting married couples.

Marriage, he makes clear, is “more than a fleeting fashion; it is of enduring importance”.

The Church in Australia has heeded the Pope’s call, responding with a landmark initiative to bring together the best minds and hearts working in the area of marriage and family today.

More than 20 Australian and international speakers will share their expertise in the field of marriage and unpack the Pope’s exhortation with talks, workshops, and inspiring testimonials.

Byron and Francine Pirola, co-directors of the Marriage Resource Centre, will host the 2016 National Renaissance of Marriage Conference in Sydney on October 21-22.

“Marriage in our time has become a political football,” say the Pirola’s. “But amongst all that noise, we as Catholics need to take some time out to reflect on what it means to be Catholic and married.”

Over the two days speakers will cover a three-stream program tailored for different areas of interest: for parents and those involved in youth and senior school ministry or education; for those who minister to the engaged and newly-weds, and for those providing support and enrichment to married couples.

The stellar line-up includes Christopher West, best-selling author, speaker, and international expert on John Paul II’s Theology of the Body; Archbishop of Sydney, Archbishop Anthony Fisher OP; Drs Ron and Mavis Pirola, Synod on the Family attendees; Archbishop of Brisbane, Archbishop Mark Coleridge; Chris Ford of Explore Marriage (UK), Peter Shakhovskoy of Men Alive; Karen and Jonathon Doyle of Being Catholic; and Paul Ninnes of Real Talk.

The Renaissance of Marriage will appeal to educators, Catholic councils and clergy, professionals and tertiary students, teachers, volunteers, parents, couples, and anyone interested in the enduring importance of marriage.

See the website www.rom.org.au for more information on the conference, fee schedule, and speakers.