Pope Francis Likely to Be Dealt Setback at Synod

Newly released documents show Catholic bishops are unlikely to back Pope Francisâ?? drive to let church members who have divorced and remarried receive Communion, threatening to set back one of the popeâ??s signature initiatives.

Position papers prepared during a high-profile meeting on family issues indicate conservative opposition to the move remains strong. Without the support of the gathering, known as a synod, the pope faces the unpalatable choice of watching a major meeting he has promoted come to an inconclusive end, or acting unilaterally and potentially dividing the church.