EVANGELII GAUDIUM - page 56

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a form of mere emotional satisfaction that can
be constructed in any way or modified at will.
But the indispensible contribution of marriage
to society transcends the feelings and momen-
tary needs of the couple. As the French bishops
have taught, it is not born “of loving sentiment,
ephemeral by definition, but from the depth of
the obligation assumed by the spouses who ac-
cept to enter a total communion of life”.60
67. The individualism of our postmodern and
globalized era favours a lifestyle which weakens
the development and stability of personal re-
lationships and distorts family bonds. Pastoral
activity needs to bring out more clearly the fact
that our relationship with the Father demands
and encourages a communion which heals, pro-
motes and reinforces interpersonal bonds. In
our world, especially in some countries, different
forms of war and conflict are re-emerging, yet
we Christians remain steadfast in our intention to
respect others, to heal wounds, to build bridges,
to strengthen relationships and to “bear one an-
other’s burdens” (Gal 6:2). Today too, various
associations for the defence of rights and the
pursuit of noble goals are being founded. This is
a sign of the desire of many people to contribute
to social and cultural progress.
60 C onférence Des Évêques De France, Conseil Famille
et Société, Élargir le mariage aux personnes de même sexe? Ouvrons le
débat! (28 September 2012).