As the Vatican prepares for a special Synod focusing on the Middle East, it has released a major preparatory document which deals with a variety of topics.  The contents of the document is as follows:

Introduction
A. The Aim of the Synod
B. A Reflection Guided by Sacred Scripture

Chapter I: The Catholic Church in the Middle East
A. The Situation of Christians in the Middle East
  1. An Historical Sketch: Unity in Diversity
  2. Apostolicity and Missionary Vocation
  3. The Role of Christians in Society, Despite their Small Number

B. The Challenges Facing Christians
  1. The Political Conflict in the Region
  2. Freedom of Religion and Conscience
  3. Christians and Developments in Contemporary Islam
  4. Emigration
  5. The Immigration of Christians to the Middle East from the World Over

C. The Christian Response in Daily Life

Chapter II: Ecclesial Communion

A. Introduction
B. Communion within the Catholic Church and between the Various Churches
C. Communion among Bishops, Clergy and the Lay-Faithful

Chapter III: Christian Witness

A. Witnessing to the Gospel within the Church: Catechesis and Works
B. Witnessing Together with other Churches and Communities
C. Particular Relations with Judaism
D. Relations with Muslims
E. The Contribution of Christians to Society
  1. Two Challenges for Our Countries
  2. Christians at the Service of Society in their Countries
  3. State-Church Relations

F. Conclusion: The Specific and Irreplaceable Contribution of the Christian

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