The World Meeting of Families opened Tuesday, Sept. 22, in Philadelphia with several firsts: It is the first time the world gathering is held in the United States and the first time it is held in a country that is not majority Catholic. 

This gathering in Philadelphia also is the best attended World Meeting of Families, with approximately 20,000 people registered from 100 countries. Large contingents from Asia, Africa and Latin America also distinguish it.

The slideshow below will be updated throughout the week of events at the World Meeting of Families.

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