Wading into the deep-seated topics of family, marriage, and religious freedom, the Catholic dioceses of El Paso and Ciudad Juarez will host a first-of-its-kind joint congress in April.

The congress, organized by the Marriage and Family Life Ministry in the diocese of El Paso, will be held April 18 at Franklin High School in El Paso, Texas. The congress in Juarez, Mexico will be held on April 18-19 at the Seminario Conciliar Theater.

"The goal for the congress is to share the Gospel of Life with the community and equip them to return to their homes and dioceses with resources, information, and a more profound understanding about their roles as baptized members of the church," stated the congress' website.

The pro-family assembly will feature leading bilingual speakers from around the country, who will present on pro-life issues, including marriage, family, and religious freedom.

Among the clergy of presenters will be Archbishop Gustavo Garcia-Siller from the Archdiocese of San Antonio, Bishop Mark Seitz of the Diocese of El Paso, and Padre Ernesto Maria Caro of Evangelizacion Activa.

Alejandro Bermudez of EWTN and ACI Prensa will also be speaking, along with Trent Horn of Catholic Answers and Monica Ashour of the Theology of the Body Evangelization Team.

"Please invite your parishioners and families to this first of a kind event," stated Bishop Mark Seitz of the Diocese of El Paso in a press release for the event.

This is the first time in history that simultaneous congresses in the border region will be taking place. Not only is this groundbreaking for building bridges within the area, but it has also been described as crucial in addressing the threats and challenges that families face within both countries.

All clergy, including priests, deacons, religious and seminarians, will be waived the $12 admission fee. The priests who attend will also be invited to concelebrate the closing liturgy.

"We hope to help everyone be more effective in the proclamation of the dignity of human life and defend against related threats and challenges that affect their families and communities."

More information can be found at http://www.elpasolife2015.org/