Mexico City, Mexico, Jan 12, 2009 / 07:06 pm (CNA).- The "Atrium of the Americas" of the Basilica of Guadalupe in Mexico City is being prepared to welcome the 70,000 people who will participate in the two main events of the Sixth World Meeting of Families, which will take place in the Mexican capital January 14-18.

The organizing committee explained that platforms are being installed on the sides of the atrium and that it will be divided into sections where seats will be set up for attendees.

"Thus the most significant Marian shrine of America, the Basilica of Guadalupe, will be the scene for both the Festive Event as well as the Closing Mass of the Sixth World Meeting of Families, on January 17 and 18 respectively," the committee announced.

Members of the media will have a room set aside where they will be able to follow the events via large-screen television. Press credentials are available through the website of the Sixth World Meeting of Families at www.emf2009.com

04:50 am | Archbishops Nienstedt and Chaput defend CCHD as criticisms continue

01:46 am | Holy Father reminds the hearing impaired they are also recipients of the Gospel

09:07 pm | CNN poll finds 61% of Americans oppose government-funded abortions

08:02 pm | USCCB: Senate health care bill 'morally unacceptable'

05:54 pm | Mexican expert: Don’t believe false 'end of world' Mayan prophecies

Mexico prepares to host global gathering of families

Western aid agencies importing their ideas of family to Africa, says official

Indissoluble marriage between man and woman should not be weakened, says archbishop

Excessive budget cuts show government’s lack of interest in the family, says paper