Rome, Italy, April 20, 2011 - If you have spent time studying the Theology of the Body (TOB), if you have a life-changing story to tell on how this catechesis has changed your life, or if you just want to visit Rome and learn more about TOB, the following news is for you!

A call has been issued for scholarly articles and testimonies concerning this revolutionary catechesis on the meaning of human love from John Paul II.  Three scholarly papers will be selected to be presented at the International Symposium in Rome “‘Love: The Splendor of the Gift’ on John Paul II’s Theology of the Body.”  The event will take place at the Pontifical Regina Apostolorum College in early November, 2011.  During the symposium those who submit the winning scholarly papers will present their perspective to the entire group in attendance. 

Organizers are also looking for people to tell their stories of how TOB has impacted their life in a special way.  For more information, go to the event website at www.rometob.org.  Those who want to be considered must submit papers and testimonies in a Word Document prior to the start of the symposium to mckay231@sbcglobal.net.

Personalized Experience of TOB

“With this symposium, we hope to offer a personalized experience of the full impact that John Paul II’s teaching on marriage and family is having in changing many lives,” said Fr. Martin Connor LC, who is helping to organize the event. “This international symposium will represent the largest gathering of speakers from all around the world up to this time. We’re hoping to bring a group of at least 100 participants from the U.S. and Canada.”

The event begins November 9, 2011 with a morning audience with Pope Benedict XVI.  Conference activities take place on November 10 and 11, and on November 12 there will be a Mass at St. Peter’s Basilica.  For more information see the event website at www.rometob.org.

Pilgrimage Planned

After the symposium, a TOB pilgrimage package is available, including guided tours of the Sistine chapel and other noteworthy sites in Rome, a Theology of the Body retreat, and a trip to Assisi.  For those interested the pilgrimage in conjunction with the symposium, contact Mountain Butorac at The Catholic Traveler at (404) 717-2460 or email him at mtn@TheCatholicTraveler.com.

“I am personally leading a pilgrimage to Assisi and Rome for the event,” said Fr. Connor.  “I hope this will inspire you to come, or at least send this information on to whoever you think might like to know about it!”