Catholic clergy have a significant presence at the conference, and one speaker devoted all of his remarks to the family-oriented teachings of the late Pope John Paul II, who is revered both as a beloved spiritual leader and as a native son.

Ellen Sauerbrey, the U.S. assistant secretary of state for population, refugees and immigration, was among Friday's invited speakers. She praised conference organizers "for all of their hard work in organizing this wonderful opportunity to celebrate and reflect upon the family and its vital role in society."

The congress is sponsored by the Illinois-based Howard Institute, a nonprofit organization that promotes the natural family, which it defines as the life-long commitment between a man and a woman that values the rearing of children and the promotion of durable bonds between the generations.

The congress has received criticism from members of the European Parliament, who pressured the assistant secretary of State to withdraw as a speaker, claiming her presence would give an official "U.S. government stamp of approval to extremist and intolerant views held by some participants and attendees."

There have been no visible signs of protest or dissent at the conference itself.

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