MaterCare International
13th Biennial Rome Conference 15th International Conference
September 7th-10th, 2026
Istituto Maria SS Bambina
Via Paolo VI 21
Rome, Italy
To register contact us at:
1-709-579-6472
Registration closes August 6th , 2026
On behalf of MaterCare International (MCI), we look forward to welcoming you to Italy for our 15th international conference. The conference venue, Istituto Maria Santissima Bambina (Institute of St Mary the Child), overlooks St Peter’s Basilica and Square, and offers convenient accommodation and conference facilities in a safe, hospitable, retreat-like environment, and the best roof-top view in Rome! (see photo below)
The conference theme, “The Genius of Motherhood,” is a quote from MaterCare’s co founder, the late Professor Robert Walley, inspired by the teachings of Pope Saint John Paul II (eg Mulieris Dignitatem) on the unique power and influence of motherhood. In order to ensure we carry out our role as authentic Catholic doctors to the very best of our ability, especially where maternal health care is concerned, we must strengthen our identity in Christ and ensure our professional expertise encompasses the “four C’s” of conviction, professional competence, community orientation, and individual compassion. These elements have been seamlessly integrated into the programme and each of the eight sessions reminds us of the beauty of our faith.
The afternoon of Day 1 features the following activities: an open board meeting, registration, Holy Hour with Adoration and Rosary, a 1 hour retreat on personal holiness, and the welcome event in the main conference hall which includes an opening address, wine and finger food then an informal time of getting acquainted on the roof whilst enjoying the spectacular view of St Peters Square. Eight sessions spread over September 8th-10th cover the following: the fundamental importance of motherhood and fatherhood; MaterCare International – medicine based on life and hope; two professional development sessions involving interactive multi
disciplinary team case discussion; from despair to hope – promoting a pro-life culture with truth, courage and love; an update on current practices and controversies, including the management of ectopic pregnancy. On Wednesday morning, September 9th, conference delegates will participate either in a General Audience with Pope Leo XIV in St Peter’s Square or a private audience. The final morning has a White Mass, addresses further controversies and formulates a conference statement.
Our speakers are experts in their field and will be extensively involved in all aspects of the programme, including panel discussions. Free communications are invited and delegates encouraged to participate in two interactive sessions. We hope that you can join us in the Eternal City for a professionally and spiritually enriching, multidisciplinary meeting.
On request to Simon Walley, extended accommodation is available in the Institute of St. Mary the Child in single- and double-bedded rooms.
We look forward to welcoming you to Rome this autumn.
A/Prof Elvis Šeman
Prof Bogdan Chazan
Mr Simon Walley
