The annual Catholic Life Congress drew about 900 Catholic women and men, mostly lay volunteer catechists from parishes in the Archdiocese of Philadelphia, to the Nov. 1 event at the Sheraton Downtown Hotel in Philadelphia. The day began with Mass at the Cathedral Basilica of SS. Peter and Paul, with Archbishop Charles Chaput as the main celebrant and Auxiliary Bishop John McIntyre concelebrating. See the full story on the congress, which was sponsored by the archdiocesan Office for the New Evangelization. (Photos by Sarah Webb)
Keynote speaker Curtis Martin addresses the large crowd.
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Archbishop Chaput and keynote speaker Curtis Martin chat during the congress.
Meghan Cokeley, director of the archdiocesan Office for the New Evangelization, whose office sponsored the congress.
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A choir sings during lunchtime at the congress.
Vendors display information at tables and speak to congress participants.
Participants start the day-long conference with Mass in the Cathedral Basilica of SS. Peter and Paul.
Archbishop Charles Chaput consecrates the host during Mass, as concelebrant Bishop John McIntyre looks on.
I enjoyed the entertainment at lunch. Thank You for taking the time: you were great I enjoyed Curtis Martin. His speak was a touchdown with me. Confessions was a little crowded. We could have had more priests. The lack of priests in the parishes cause long lines. I enjoyed the day. Thank You Bishop Chaput