Catholic women at any age may experience the unique and simultaneous pressures of balancing motherhood, a career, pursuing academic advancement and supporting loved ones. And this just scratches the surface of the issues that impact women daily.
Considering these and other scenarios that may seem overwhelming, a group of faith-filled, Catholic lay women from parishes throughout the Diocese of Cleveland came together to talk about forming a religious conference that would support women while providing an opportunity to have peace, clarity and strength while drawing on Catholic teachings.
After attending and seeing the success of diocesan conferences in Toledo and Columbus, organizers began to pray about whether something similar would be beneficial in Northeast Ohio. Through the process of discernment, a one-day conference for adult women was formed. “Fearlessly Faithful: Let It be Done Unto Me,” is the title theme for the first Cleveland Catholic Women’s Conference. The event will focus on deepening faith, praying with other women and open dialogue.
The conference will take place 8 a.m. to 4 p.m. on Saturday, Oct. 19 at St. Basil the Great Parish, 8700 Brecksville Road, Brecksville. Registration is being accepted online.
“Giving women the opportunity to spend a day praying, learning, and meeting with other women will surely enhance our thriving Cleveland Catholic community,” said Jennifer Ricard, a conference organizer who also serves as a pastoral associate at Immaculate Heart of Mary Church in Cuyahoga Falls.
“This conference provides dedicated time with a supportive environment of women to see the power of God and the love that unfolds in the unique plan he has for each one of us,” Ricard said.
All women are invited to attend the Cleveland Catholic Women’s Conference. The day will begin with Mass celebrated by Bishop Nelson J. Perez. Sessions include speaker Mary Bielski, author and blogger Laura Mary Phelps and Father Patrick Schultz from Communion of Saints Parish in Cleveland Heights.
Brooke Taylor, a veteran broadcaster and host of “Good Things Radio,” will be mistress of ceremonies and singer/songwriter Taylor Tripodi will share her musical gifts.
In addition, participants will have the opportunity for the sacrament of reconciliation, eucharistic adoration, discussion and group prayer. A variety of vendors will be on site. Breakfast and lunch are included with registration.
Student tickets for ages 18-22 are $25; regular participants are $35. Admission is free for those in religious life.
“One of the best ways to see the true beauty of our Catholic faith is to take the time to listen to God speaking to us through the Mass, adoration, confession, excellent speakers and conversations with other faithful women. This conference aims to center women in Christ. By reaching out for him, he will provide and enrich our lives,” Ricard said.
Learn more about each guest speaker click on their photo on the conferences home page linked here.