Talitha Kum, represented by Sr. Abby Avelino, MM, the Talitha Kum International Coordinator, and Sr. Adina Balan, CJ, the regional coordinator for Europe, participated the Second Faith and Philanthropy Summit at the Blenheim Palace, Oxford, England, on October 8-10, 2024. The Summit was an initiative of the Galileo Foundation in collaboration with various faith-based organizations. An international group of philanthropists from diverse backgrounds gathered for the second time this year. The first Summit was held in the Vatican in October 2022 with the support of the Holy Father, Pope Francis.

This year's topic was Peace and Philanthropy: Healing Our Common Home and Each Other.  More than 100 philanthropists from different faith backgrounds, nationalities, group affiliations, and expertise came together to share the vital role of philanthropy in promoting peace, protecting our Oceans (Our Common Home), and protecting Children and vulnerable people. 

On one of the panels, six individuals presented the grassroots realities of the vulnerable people. Sr. Abby Avelino was one of the panellists presenting the global reality of human trafficking, particularly protecting children, and the vital role of Talitha Kum global network, a Catholic Sisters-led network against human trafficking. This session was moderated by Julie Etchingham, a famous journalist from the United Kingdom (BBC / ITV News).

“It's a very engaging and hopeful feedback on the role of philanthropy in promoting peace, healing, and caring for the Earth and with each other. We all have a role in making this happen with the mission of caring for and with humanity. I am thankful for John McCaffrey, the CEO of the Galileo Foundation, and all benefactors for the support of Talitha Kum.” – Sr. Abby Avelino, MM.

The 2024 Prophets of Philanthropy Award was the highlight of the Summit. The recipients are famous philanthropists from the celebrity world: Sharon Stone, Donatella Versace, and HE Mary Robinson, former President of Ireland. 

“This award means so much to me, especially given the work that the Galileo Foundation does to support Pope Francis’ vision of a fairer world. Their support of the Talitha Kum religious sisters fighting the scourge of human trafficking around the world is particularly inspiring. It is an honor to be associated with the Galileo Foundation.” - Sharon Stone 

Overall, the Summit created a space for crucial dialogue among philanthropists from various faiths, demonstrating the importance of collaboration in addressing global issues and promoting collective action towards fostering a safer and more equitable world. Talitha Kum International is moving forward with interfaith collaboration and networking to promote peace and care for the Earth and a safer world for humanity.