Istituto Acton and the United States Embassy to the Holy See co-sponsored a one-day conference to discuss the political, economic, religious and moral conditions favoring the growth of philanthropy and private welfare. Ambassador Mary Ann Glendon chaired sessions with European and American philanthropists, entrepreneurs, opinion leaders and religious. Before a distinguished audience of Vatican officials, businessmen, heads of charitable enterprises, academics, seminarians and journalists, the conference’s speakers addressed traditional and innovative models of philanthropy and challenges to such models. Discussion during the roundtable session focused primarily on how human fulfilment and happiness are enhanced by charitable giving.

Speakers

• H.E.H. Frà Matthew Festing (Prince and Grand Master,  Sovreign Order of Malta)
  Bio
   
• Rev. Robert A. Sirico  (President, Acton Institute)
  Bio - Lecture
   
• H.E. Mary Ann Glendon ( Former Ambassador, United States Embassy to the Holy See)
  Bio - Lecture
   
• Dr. Arthur Brooks (President, American Enterprise Institute)
  Bio
   
• Mr. Frank Hanna (Commercial Banker and Founder of Solidarity Foundation)
  Bio
   
• Dr. Jürgen Liminski (Information and Fundraising Director, Aid to the Church in Need)
  Lecture
   
• Dr. Giovanni Mottini (President, Harambee Africa International ONLUS)
  Bio
   
• Hon. Michael Novak (President Emeritus, American Enterprise Institute)
  Bio
   
• Dr. Salvatore Rebecchini (Advisor to the Board, Rebecchini Foundation)
  Lecture

In the Press

• "Charity is necessary for happiness", Catholic News Service, December 4, 2008

Pictures