Room: Auditorium and Humphrey Theatre
Human connection matters.  Joe will address the importance of connecting with youth and the need youth have for making connections.  Educators have one of the most important roles in making a difference in the lives of young people.

Ask the presenter questions here

Room: Quad 264
We are all called by God, in multiple ways, through all seasons of life. But how do we live out our vocations, practically speaking? In this workshop we’ll explore the particular people, places, and work to which we are called—and how God speaks to us through Scripture, sacraments, and prayer to sustain us in our vocations. Leave with practical tools to support your own calling and the callings of those you serve.

Ask the presenter questions here

Room: Quad 346
Those who are entrusted with care for children, youth and adults are certain to experience the death of others. This workshop will explore how we are honored and responsible to respond when death occurs in our schools, parishes and communities. This workshop will support and provide you skills to equip you to lead with compassion and pastoral care. The opportunities in our daily lives to care and support the bereaved are endless.  Responding with care and compassion will be explored with practical and caring ideas for implementation.

Ask the presenter questions here

Room: Quad 170
Almost every ministry conference includes a session that asks the question, “where have all the youth gone?” Though we ask the question over and over, we often don’t encounter concrete answers. In this session, we will examine the current research into the religious attitudes of young people, analyze the ways our communities can provide outreach, and start to ask the right questions necessary for effective engagement of young people.

Ask the presenter questions here

Room: Quad 342
In early 2019 the United States Catholic Bishops wrote a pastoral letter entitled “Open Wide Our Hearts: the Enduring Call to Love,” in which they spoke of the reality of racism in our country and our Christian call to help eradicate the sins of racism in our nation, our communities and our churches. Come learn more about the bishop’s message against racism, as well as hearing the stories of community members who have felt the effects of racism in their lives. Participants will also have the chance to reflect on their own experiences of race, as well as discuss tools for helping our parishes or groups unpack this important letter on a very important issue!

Ask the presenter questions here

Room: Quad 341
A major issue faces the Catholic Church in recent years: how to serve the surging population of young Hispanics within its flock and still remain a united faith. With Hispanics already accounting for more than half of the U.S. Catholic population under age 25, the church’s very future, some say, depends on how it meets the challenge of reaching out to its fastest growing constituency: Hispanic youth. Build your local resource kit from best practices across the country.

Ask the presenter questions here

Room: Quad 353
In this session, we will look at the importance of building relationships with strangers and friends and how it directly impacts our ability to be radical in extending Christ’s welcome. All ministers, whether secretary, pastor, liturgical minister, catechist or others will be able to apply radical hospitality to their ministry.

Ask the presenter questions here

Room: Quad 339
Three experienced church communicators highlight best practices for sharing important information with parishioners, particularly during times of crisis or change. Participants in this workshop — moderated by Joe Towalski, director of communications for the Diocese of St. Cloud — will have an opportunity to ask questions and share their own experiences.

Ask the presenter questions here

Room: Quad 344
Dr. David Walsh says, “Whoever tells the stories defines the culture.” Communications 101 says “If we don’t tell our story, someone else will.” Basic Collaboration Skills says, “Keep people in the loop!” How are we telling the Stories of Jesus Christ, our parishes, and God’s activity in our lives? This session will look at some of the why’s and how’s of using technology in parish communications and faith formation. We will also dream about ways of engaging our youth and young adults in this important ministry. We need to tell our story, and tell it well, especially in light of the challenges of area Catholic communities.

Ask the presenter questions here

Room: Quad 360
Explore the Order of Mass and the Three Judgments one uses to choose music – Liturgical, Pastoral and Musical and the different categories of music – acclamations, dialogues, hymns, psalms and other spiritual songs.  We will also explore how to shape liturgy for seasonal worship both for Sunday and school and how the relationship between pastoral musician and priest makes it “all” work.  We will also touch briefly on Copyright, CLOW, School Liturgies, Resources.

Ask the presenter questions here