Vatican Official Urges Couples for Christ to put Families at Heart of Church Mission

A Vatican official has called on Couples for Christ (CFC) to continue championing the family as the foundation of both society and the Church by helping place families at the center of political, social and economic life.

In a message marking the Philippine-founded Catholic movement's 45th anniversary, Cardinal Mario Grech, secretary-general of the Synod of Bishops, said strong families are essential to building vibrant communities and renewing the Church's mission.

"For this reason, we must promote every initiative that helps keep the family at the centre of political, social and economic decisions," Cardinal Grech said.

The cardinal noted that Couples for Christ has a vital role in supporting families in local communities and around the world, particularly as the Catholic Church continues its synodal journey.

Addressing CFC members, especially those serving across Asia, Cardinal Grech encouraged them to become bridge-builders in increasingly diverse societies by fostering dialogue among different cultures, ethnic groups and religious traditions.

He also highlighted that the anniversary coincides with the 10th anniversary of Amoris Laetitia, Pope Francis' apostolic exhortation on marriage and family life, which continues to guide the Church's pastoral ministry to families.

Cardinal Grech also recalled Pope Leo XIV's anniversary message urging Catholics to deepen pastoral renewal and strengthen care for families.

Quoting the pope's encyclical Magnifica Humanitas, the cardinal described the family as "a primary social good" and "the fundamental and irreplaceable cell of every community organization."

He stressed that Christian families should move beyond being recipients of pastoral care and become missionary witnesses who bring Christ's love into their homes, neighborhoods and society.

Founded in the Philippines in 1981, Couples for Christ has grown into a global Catholic lay movement dedicated to evangelization, family renewal and social outreach, with communities now present in more than 100 countries.