Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)

Welcome to our Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ) section about the Congress of Mary Help of Christians in Fatima! This page aims to provide useful information and clarify common doubts you may have about the event.

Below you'll find a comprehensive list of questions and answers covering a range of topics related to the congress, from registration and the programme to logistical details. If you're looking for answers to your questions before joining us in Fatima, you're in the right place. If your question isn't listed here, don't hesitate to contact us. We look forward to providing you with an enriching experience and clearing up all your doubts as we prepare to celebrate together in 2024.

1. What is the International Congress of Mary Help of Christians 2024?

The International Congress of Mary Help of Christians is a meeting organised by the Association of Mary Help of Christians (ADMA) which aims to make known, deepen and spread devotion to Mary Help of Christians.

Designed for all the groups of the Salesian Family, this congress is usually held every four years and is a very important moment for everyone. Therefore, all the groups of the Salesian Family are called to take part in this important moment of union and devotion.

2. HOW DO I REGISTER FOR THE MARY HELP OF CHRISTIANS CONGRESS 2024?

To register for the International Congress of Mary Help of Christians 2024, you need to fill in the online form available on the website. Once you have filled in the form, you must pay and send proof of payment to administracao.mariaauxiliadora2024@salesianos.pt.

Registration will only be confirmed once payment has been received.

3. WHAT ARE THE REGISTRATION DATES FOR THE CONGRESS?

Registration opened on 24 September and runs until 24 June 2024.

4. WHERE WILL THE INTERNATIONAL CONGRESS OF MARY HELP OF CHRISTIANS 2024 BE HELD?

The International Congress of Mary Help of Christians 2024 will take place in Fatima.

5. WHAT IS THE MINIMUM AND MAXIMUM AGE TO PARTICIPATE?

There is no minimum age to take part, everyone is called to be present at this important moment.

6. WHAT IS THE REGISTRATION FEE?

The fee for adults is 160 euros and for children up to the age of 12 it is 60 euros.

7. WHAT DOES THE PARTICIPANT KIT INCLUDE?

The participant kit includes meals for both registrations, from dinner on Thursday 29/8 to lunch on Sunday 01/09. It also includes merchandising items that we’ll be publicising soon.

8. IS THERE A DISCOUNT FOR GROUPS WISHING TO ENROL TOGETHER?

There is no discount for groups.

9. HOW DO I PAY FOR MY ENROLMENT? WHAT ARE THE PAYMENT METHODS?

Payment for registration is made by bank transfer, after completing the registration form, and proof must be sent by e-mail to administracao.mariaauxiliadora2024@salesianos.pt.

Transfer (SEPA):
IBAN PT500033000045113664405
SWIFT/BIC BCOMPTPL

Transfer (non-SEPA):
Account: 45451136644
Holder: FUNDACAO SALESIANOS
Address: Pc S Joao Bosco n34 1399-007 LISBOA
Bank: Banco Comercial Português SA
Branch: Lisboa III Empresas
Address: R Augusta n84 Piso2 1100-053 LISBOA
SWIFT/BIC: BCOMPTPL

10. CAN I GET A RECEIPT TO PROVE PAYMENT?

Once you have confirmed your registration and sent proof of payment, the organisation will contact you and send you a receipt.

11. CAN I MAKE CHANGES TO MY REGISTRATION AFTER COMPLETING IT?

Requests for changes to registrations should be made to the secretariat team by emailing secretariado.mariaauxiliadora2024@salesianos.pt and analysed on a case-by-case basis.

12. CAN I TRANSFER MY REGISTRATION TO SOMEONE ELSE IF I CAN'T ATTEND THE EVENT?

Registration is personal and non-transferable.

13. WHO SHOULD TAKE CARE OF THE ACCOMMODATION?

Each participant must arrange their own accommodation. There is a list of the hotels closest to the Shrine of Fatima on the website.

14. IS THERE A REFUND IN CASE OF CANCELLATION?

If, for whatever reason, you wish to withdraw from the IX Congress of Mary Help of Christians, you can do so until 24 June and you will receive a refund of 60% of the amount paid at the time of registration. There will be no refund after that date. The organisation is not responsible for reimbursing travel, accommodation or any other expenses other than registration.

15. WHERE CAN I FIND PREPARATION MATERIALS FOR MYSELF AND MY GROUP FOR THE INTERNATIONAL CONGRESS OF MARY HELP OF CHRISTIANS 2024?

On the website you’ll find various preparation materials for the Congress.

16. CAN I FIND INFORMATION IN MY LANGUAGE ON THIS SITE?

The website is available in five languages: Portuguese, English, Spanish, Italian and French.

17. WHAT IS THE WEATHER LIKE IN PORTUGAL IN AUGUST?

Portugal has a temperate Mediterranean climate. This means that in August the days are very hot and the nights are mild. It’s important to take sun protection with you. A light jacket for the evening is also important.