Guide To The 2015 World Meeting Of Families In Philadelphia
Celebrate faith, family and community this fall, when the World Meeting of Families comes to Philadelphia for nearly a week of once-in-a-lifetime events.
THE BASICS
WHAT: The World Meeting of Families brings people from all over the world together for a celebration of "family, the sanctuary of love and life." The meeting, which was created by Pope John Paul II back in 1994, is held every three years and is the world's largest Catholic gathering of families. Each WMOF has a theme; this year's is "Love Is Our Mission: The Family Fully Alive" and focuses on the impact of the love of families on today's society. The WMOF takes place over six days and includes the two-day Papal Visit, the high-energy Festival of Families, keynote speakers and various events held at the Pennsylvania Convention Center and around the city.
WHERE: Considering its theme, it's no wonder the WMOF is coming to Philadelphia, the City of Brotherly Love, in 2015.
WHEN: The WMOF is running September 22-25, 2015 and the Papal Visit will take place on September 26 and 27.
THE SCHEDULE
The WMOF is headquartered in the Pa. Convention Center. Each day, there will be a mass, Devotions, keynote speakers and multiple breakout sessions. Masses will be held inside the convention center, and confession stations will be located at designated areas. To see the WMOF schedule, click here.
THINGS TO KNOW
Keynote Presentations will be translated into several languages (French, English, Spanish and Italian).
Breakout Sessions will be given in the language of the keynote speakers, although some may be translated.
Childcare is available for families attending the WMOF. It's called "Camp WMOF," and kids from 6 months through 12 years are welcome. Games, arts and crafts and activities are on the schedule, and prices run from $8-15 an hour with a four-hour minimum. For more information, click here.
The Youth Congress offers special events from Sept. 22-25 for kids between 6 and 17. Teens who are over 17 but are still in high school can also attend, as long as they agree to follow the Youth Congress Code of Conduct. From a concert and painting to rosary-making and other charitable initiatives, there are a ton of activities the younger set can enjoy while visiting the WMOF.
For more information, visit the WMOF FAQ section.
THINGS TO SEE
Paint with The City of Philadelphia's Mural Arts Program
Get your hands dirty and become a part of history by lending a hand in the creation of a new Philadelphia mural! Congress attendees are invited to join renowned muralist Cesar Viveros in painting "The Sacred Now: Faith and Family in the 21st Century" at the convention center. The 4,239 square feet piece of artwork will become a permanent installation on the outside of a Philly elementary school.
"Vatican Splendors: A Journey Through Faith and Art"
Head to the Franklin Institute starting September 19th for a look at 2,000-plus years of Vatican history. The multi-sensory exhibit lets guests take in the sights and sounds of the Grand Basilica, touch a cast of Saint John Paul II's hand, catch a glimpse of a brick from St. Paul's tomb and more. The limited-time exhibit is slated to run through February 15, 2016.
THE FESTIVAL OF FAMILIES
One of the hallmark events of the WMOF, the Festival of Families takes place on Saturday, September 26 and is an international celebration of faith, family and community. The all-day festival includes two stages, some words of wisdom from Pope Francis himself and performances from some big names, including host Mark Wahlberg, Aretha Franklin, The Fray, Andrea Bocelli, Marie Miller, Juanes, Jackie Evancho, Sister Sledge, Matt Maher, The Philadelphia Orchestra and comedian Jim Gaffigan. Cultural groups, spiritual organizations and educational institutions will also take the stage. For more info on the Festival of Families, click here.
PLANNING YOUR VISIT
The World Meeting of Families' website has entire section dedicated to helping families plan a trip to Philadelphia. From lodging and visa info to famous churches and official WMOF gear, there's a wealth of information here.
GET INVOLVED
From volunteering at the Meeting to making a donation to simply saying a prayer, there's plenty you can do to get involved in this year's event. Click here for more information.