On October 16, 1981 in the Vatican, the Holy Father John Paul II established a Foundation bearing his name. In the Decree of Establishment he outlined its goals: "to promote religious, cultural, and social initiatives which will serve the faithful." The Foundation, with its headquarters in Rome, currently embraces almost the entire world. The Foundation consists of forty four Chapters and the Friends of the Foundation are located in seventeen countries in Europe, North America and Asia. Individuals who are members desire to learn more about the teachings of John Paul II and actively contribute to their dissemination, helping to achieve the Foundation's goals.