On Friday, September 3, five interdisciplinary seminars on “The Genealogy of the Person and Family Values” took place in the nearby city of Barbastro, under the direction of fifty specialists. Among the themes they addressed were the spousal relationship and the extended family.

On Saturday, September 4, the day began with a solemn offering of families to Our Lady of Torreciudad, both to thank her and to place them under her protection. This was followed by Holy Mass, at which Bishop Echevarria was the principal celebrant. Choral music was provided by the parents of students from several schools in Valencia and Alicante, with organ accompaniment by Maite Aranzábal. A message from the Holy Father was read at the conclusion of Mass.

After a mid-day break for the families to have lunch and visit with each other, the celebration concluded in the afternoon with the recitation of the Rosary and Solemn Exposition of the Blessed Sacrament.

During the day’s proceedings, supervised games and other activities were provided for the smaller children.

The text of the Prelate’s remarks may be found in the adjoining column.