Something amazing just happened for Couples for Christ (CFC), a group of Catholic families that help spread love, faith, and kindness all over the world.
They went all the way to Rome, Italy, to celebrate a very special event — the 25th anniversary of being officially recognized by the Vatican, which is the home of the Pope and the center of the Catholic Church.
They Got to See the Pope Up Close!
On May 21, something extra special happened. The new Pope, Pope Leo XIV, came out for his first public General Audience — this is when he speaks to people from around the world. He rode around St. Peter’s Square in his Popemobile, smiling and waving.
Thousands of people — including members of CFC — were there. They cheered, waved flags, and smiled as they saw the Pope up close. What an exciting day!
Pope Leo shared a message filled with hope, faith, and spiritual renewal — which means helping people feel closer to God and be stronger in their faith. He also said he wants to continue the good work started by Pope Francis, the Pope before him, and add his own energy to help the Church.
First CFC Worldwide Conference Outside the Philippines
This celebration was extra special because it was also the first time that CFC held a global conference outside the Philippines!
The conference took place from May 16 to 18 and again from May 23 to 25 at Centro Mariapoli in Castel Gandolfo, a peaceful place in the hills outside Rome where popes used to stay.
CFC said it was the perfect spot for prayer, quiet time, and deep thinking.
What Did They Do at the Conference?
CFC members from all around the world came together to:
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Listen to talks from cardinals and bishops (important Church leaders)
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Reflect on their mission of sharing faith and helping families
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Feel inspired to keep doing good work in their communities
CFC said the goal was to help everyone “rekindle their missionary zeal,” which means getting excited again to share God’s love with others.
Big Anniversaries for CFC
This year, CFC is not just celebrating 25 years of being recognized by the Vatican. It’s also their:
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40th anniversary as a group that helps bring people closer to God
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30th year of working in different parts of Europe
That’s a long time doing great things!
Where Did CFC Begin?
The Catholic Bishop’s Conference of the Philippines (CBCP) said that CFC started in 1981 with just 16 Filipino couples who joined a seminar by Ligaya ng Panginoon, a Catholic group that helps people grow in faith.
Now, CFC is in at least 122 countries and territories around the world — wow!
What’s the Message for Everyone?
CFC said the whole event sent a clear message to all:
“Hope is alive, and the mission continues.”
That means they will keep doing their work with love and faith, no matter what.
