USA: World Meeting of Families in Philadelphia

Last week in Philadelphia, Malteser International Americas and the Order of Malta American Association joined together to educate families from around the globe about our humanitarian relief efforts and the Order, during the World Meeting of Families conference.

Nearly 20,000 people, who were new to the incredible work of Malteser International, visited the booth to talk with staff, learn about our programs, and register to win an emergency kit, while walking away with mini-first aid kits with Band-Aids for life’s little emergencies. Thank you to the Knights and Dames stopped by to show support out our joint educational venture with the Order of Malta.

The Vatican-sponsored conference, which coincided with the visit of Pope Francis to the United States, was the world’s largest gathering of Catholic families, representing 100 countries from around the world. Attendees globetrotted to the “City of Brotherly Love” for nearly a week of faith-themed lectures, and exhibits, exploring family bonds and the role of families in society.

The World Meeting of Families was conceived by St. John Paul II in 1992 with the first conference held in 1994. He started the event to explore family bonds and the role of families in society. He presided over the inaugural edition in Rome during the UN’s International Year of the Family.