B-01:
Faithful Words, Hopeful Hearts: A Workshop for Lay Ministers and Educators (A. Adams)
While we may think of "preaching" as limited to the homily delivered by a priest at Mass, baptism calls and empowers all Christians to proclaim the Gospel in word and action. Lay people in the Catholic Church evangelize in a variety of settings-retreats, prayer services, classrooms, and beyond-guiding others in faith through their witness. This workshop draws from communication theory and homiletics to equip lay ministers and educators with practical tools for crafting thoughtful, engaging, and scripture-based reflections. Participants will gain confidence in their ability to share the Gospel with clarity, depth, and authenticity.
B-02:
ALL Pilgrims Of Hope (Fr. G. Bazikila)
As Christians, Baptized, let us journey together to resemble Christ in the unity of hope.
The presentation will include various aspects of hope, prayers for hope, stories and saints inspiring hope.
Note: The presentation will be in American Sign Language and interpreted from ASL to voice.
B-03:
Transforming Youth Ministry: From Participants to Leaders (K. Bernaga)
This session will explore the vital role youth leadership plays in the success of parish youth ministry. As ministers, we are called to not only serve youth but to empower them to take ownership of their ministry. We will discuss practical strategies for recognizing, recruiting, and training youth leaders, focusing on creating an environment where they are equipped to lead and inspire others. By shifting the focus from ministry "to and for youth" to ministry "through youth", we can foster a deeper, more sustainable involvement in the life of the Church.
B-04:
Jubilee 2025 and Respect Life (Rev. A. Brown)
Life to the full! Jesus' promise to his followers rings true in our Jubilee Year, as the gifts of liberation and restored dignity allow us to discover our true identity in God. While our culture is becoming increasingly pessimistic and hostile toward life, we can live as beacons in our parishes and world, awakening hope and a renewed commitment to supporting our brothers and sisters.
B-05:
The Power of Presence (R. David)
God's presence is everywhere and through anyone. Through sharing a collection of stories, we can see how God comes into our lives through chance encounters. This workshop allows for one to reflect upon their own lives, how they can find God in others and in themselves. This is a practical workshop that touches on relational ministry and place sharing.
B-06:
Foster Vocations in Your Ministry or the Church Will Die (Fr. R. Derivera)
Okay, theologically speaking the Church will never die, but we needed a catchy title, because no one ever comes to vocation workshops. The work of fostering vocations is the responsibility of the whole church, and so if you aren't helping foster vocations in your ministry, no matter what it is, you aren't doing your part. Listen to Fr. Raj share his own vocation journey and some hilarious stories from seminary and the priesthood and discover how and why you should be fostering vocations in your ministry.
B-07:
Skills for healthy and productive compatibility in marriage and family relationships (B. Kelso)
Personalities variations, family of origin training and blended families can present great difficulties' in todays family. This workshop invites us to learn and begin applying 4 skills that can insure a solid path to compatibility in even the most difficult scenarios'. These skills are difficult so I also talk about 5 ways to grow in these skills utilizing our faith and our own human maturity.
B-08:
Proclaim Love: Tips for Liturgical Ministers (M. Kennedy)
The ministries of Psalmist, Lector, and Gospel Proclaimer play a vital role in liturgy. God's real presence is in His word. While living out a biblical and spiritual life is essential, how do we take that and actually prepare and practice? This training focuses on small things in those areas that can give us the foundation to help lift the words from the printed page. It will focus on techniques and tips on how to share the Lord's love in the living spoken and sung Word of God.
B-09:
I have to plan a retreat? Run away! (D. Kochuparambil)
Planning a retreat can seem extremely intimidating, but it doesn't have to be! Retreats are an extremely important part of our spiritual journey in growing closer to God, and offering retreats for youth gives them an opportunity to step away from everything else (including Confirmation classes). This workshop is intended to give practical ideas and tips and basic outlines to follow when planning a retreat.
B-10:
Sacred Spaces, Sacred Places, Sacred Meaning (Fr. T. Lucas, S.J.)
This richly illustrated workshop explores the architecture of Catholic worship from the earliest Christian communities to the present moment here in Sacramento. Buildings enclose space even as they disclose meaning. Where we worship and how we worship are interlocking realities that inform each other, and our churches provide our communities with more than a shelter from the storm: they are revelations of our faith and hope, of our history and promise.
B-11:
Bridging the Gap: Youth in the Age of Advancing Technology and AI in the Catholic Church (E. Medina)
In this session, we will delve into the intricate relationship between modern youth and rapidly advancing technology, exploring ways to foster meaningful connections and ethical understanding in this digital age.
We will review Vatican documents highlighting the importance of bridging generational divides and embracing technological advancements responsibly. We will also introduce a step-by-step guide aimed at facilitating dialogue and connection with youth, drawing on principles of active listening, empathy, and open-mindedness.
Furthermore, we will have the opportunity to witness a live example of AI technology in action, demonstrating how innovative tools can be harnessed to enhance communication and engagement with youth. Through case studies and practical examples, we will showcase.
B-12:
Education System of Don Bosco (JC. Montenegro)
Did you know that Don Bosco revolutionized education for youth at risk? In this presentation, we will explore who Don Bosco was: a man who dedicated his life to transforming thousands of youths at risk. You will learn about his vision and educational system based on reason, religion, and care.
We will discuss his catechetical methods in depth: catechesis, experience, proposal, and response. This will not be only about theory; instead, it will be an opportunity to discover how this method is still a powerful tool for the education and formation of new generations.
Do not miss this opportunity to learn and ponder on this educational legacy that is still changing lives!
B-13:
Sacraments... Intentions Matter! (D. Perez)
Pope Francis said that the Sacrament of Confirmation has become the "sacrament of farewell". Without the proper dispositions of faith, the Sacrament of Confirmation is "in danger of remaining an empty rite". With the proper disposition of faith, however, the sacrament can bear the fruit we long to see in our parishes and in the world. In this session, we will unpack how we can journey with teens so they are "ready" to receive the sacrament.
B-14:
Discerning Readiness for Rites in OCIA (L. Smith)
Becoming Catholic in the OCIA requires mutual discernment between the participant and the Church to ensure a person is freely choosing to become Catholic, ready to pass through the liturgical rites in the OCIA process, and is becoming a disciple of Christ. This workshop provides an overview of why discerning readiness for rites is a critical aspect in the OCIA process as well as ways for participants and team members to mutually discern an individual's readiness. As a result of this workshop you will gain confidence in your ability to discern with an OCIA participant their readiness for the liturgical rites.
B-15:
Recruiting, Training, Maintaining Disciples all year long (A. Valencia)
Do you know which is the number one priority as a catechetical leader? It is not the children and youth in Faith Formation or Sacramental prep, nor their parents. This interactive training event will equip you with the tools and resources you need to build a strong and thriving team of catechists. Your number one priority is to ensure that your catechists are supported, inspired, and equipped to effectively share the Catholic faith with children, youth and adults in Faith Formation and Sacramental prep. This hands-on journey together will explore strategies and best practices for year-round catechist recruitment, encouragement, training, supervision, evaluation, retention, and celebration.
Faithful Words, Hopeful Hearts: A Workshop for Lay Ministers and Educators (A. Adams)
While we may think of "preaching" as limited to the homily delivered by a priest at Mass, baptism calls and empowers all Christians to proclaim the Gospel in word and action. Lay people in the Catholic Church evangelize in a variety of settings-retreats, prayer services, classrooms, and beyond-guiding others in faith through their witness. This workshop draws from communication theory and homiletics to equip lay ministers and educators with practical tools for crafting thoughtful, engaging, and scripture-based reflections. Participants will gain confidence in their ability to share the Gospel with clarity, depth, and authenticity.
B-02:
ALL Pilgrims Of Hope (Fr. G. Bazikila)
As Christians, Baptized, let us journey together to resemble Christ in the unity of hope.
The presentation will include various aspects of hope, prayers for hope, stories and saints inspiring hope.
Note: The presentation will be in American Sign Language and interpreted from ASL to voice.
B-03:
Transforming Youth Ministry: From Participants to Leaders (K. Bernaga)
This session will explore the vital role youth leadership plays in the success of parish youth ministry. As ministers, we are called to not only serve youth but to empower them to take ownership of their ministry. We will discuss practical strategies for recognizing, recruiting, and training youth leaders, focusing on creating an environment where they are equipped to lead and inspire others. By shifting the focus from ministry "to and for youth" to ministry "through youth", we can foster a deeper, more sustainable involvement in the life of the Church.
B-04:
Jubilee 2025 and Respect Life (Rev. A. Brown)
Life to the full! Jesus' promise to his followers rings true in our Jubilee Year, as the gifts of liberation and restored dignity allow us to discover our true identity in God. While our culture is becoming increasingly pessimistic and hostile toward life, we can live as beacons in our parishes and world, awakening hope and a renewed commitment to supporting our brothers and sisters.
B-05:
The Power of Presence (R. David)
God's presence is everywhere and through anyone. Through sharing a collection of stories, we can see how God comes into our lives through chance encounters. This workshop allows for one to reflect upon their own lives, how they can find God in others and in themselves. This is a practical workshop that touches on relational ministry and place sharing.
B-06:
Foster Vocations in Your Ministry or the Church Will Die (Fr. R. Derivera)
Okay, theologically speaking the Church will never die, but we needed a catchy title, because no one ever comes to vocation workshops. The work of fostering vocations is the responsibility of the whole church, and so if you aren't helping foster vocations in your ministry, no matter what it is, you aren't doing your part. Listen to Fr. Raj share his own vocation journey and some hilarious stories from seminary and the priesthood and discover how and why you should be fostering vocations in your ministry.
B-07:
Skills for healthy and productive compatibility in marriage and family relationships (B. Kelso)
Personalities variations, family of origin training and blended families can present great difficulties' in todays family. This workshop invites us to learn and begin applying 4 skills that can insure a solid path to compatibility in even the most difficult scenarios'. These skills are difficult so I also talk about 5 ways to grow in these skills utilizing our faith and our own human maturity.
B-08:
Proclaim Love: Tips for Liturgical Ministers (M. Kennedy)
The ministries of Psalmist, Lector, and Gospel Proclaimer play a vital role in liturgy. God's real presence is in His word. While living out a biblical and spiritual life is essential, how do we take that and actually prepare and practice? This training focuses on small things in those areas that can give us the foundation to help lift the words from the printed page. It will focus on techniques and tips on how to share the Lord's love in the living spoken and sung Word of God.
B-09:
I have to plan a retreat? Run away! (D. Kochuparambil)
Planning a retreat can seem extremely intimidating, but it doesn't have to be! Retreats are an extremely important part of our spiritual journey in growing closer to God, and offering retreats for youth gives them an opportunity to step away from everything else (including Confirmation classes). This workshop is intended to give practical ideas and tips and basic outlines to follow when planning a retreat.
B-10:
Sacred Spaces, Sacred Places, Sacred Meaning (Fr. T. Lucas, S.J.)
This richly illustrated workshop explores the architecture of Catholic worship from the earliest Christian communities to the present moment here in Sacramento. Buildings enclose space even as they disclose meaning. Where we worship and how we worship are interlocking realities that inform each other, and our churches provide our communities with more than a shelter from the storm: they are revelations of our faith and hope, of our history and promise.
B-11:
Bridging the Gap: Youth in the Age of Advancing Technology and AI in the Catholic Church (E. Medina)
In this session, we will delve into the intricate relationship between modern youth and rapidly advancing technology, exploring ways to foster meaningful connections and ethical understanding in this digital age.
We will review Vatican documents highlighting the importance of bridging generational divides and embracing technological advancements responsibly. We will also introduce a step-by-step guide aimed at facilitating dialogue and connection with youth, drawing on principles of active listening, empathy, and open-mindedness.
Furthermore, we will have the opportunity to witness a live example of AI technology in action, demonstrating how innovative tools can be harnessed to enhance communication and engagement with youth. Through case studies and practical examples, we will showcase.
B-12:
Education System of Don Bosco (JC. Montenegro)
Did you know that Don Bosco revolutionized education for youth at risk? In this presentation, we will explore who Don Bosco was: a man who dedicated his life to transforming thousands of youths at risk. You will learn about his vision and educational system based on reason, religion, and care.
We will discuss his catechetical methods in depth: catechesis, experience, proposal, and response. This will not be only about theory; instead, it will be an opportunity to discover how this method is still a powerful tool for the education and formation of new generations.
Do not miss this opportunity to learn and ponder on this educational legacy that is still changing lives!
B-13:
Sacraments... Intentions Matter! (D. Perez)
Pope Francis said that the Sacrament of Confirmation has become the "sacrament of farewell". Without the proper dispositions of faith, the Sacrament of Confirmation is "in danger of remaining an empty rite". With the proper disposition of faith, however, the sacrament can bear the fruit we long to see in our parishes and in the world. In this session, we will unpack how we can journey with teens so they are "ready" to receive the sacrament.
B-14:
Discerning Readiness for Rites in OCIA (L. Smith)
Becoming Catholic in the OCIA requires mutual discernment between the participant and the Church to ensure a person is freely choosing to become Catholic, ready to pass through the liturgical rites in the OCIA process, and is becoming a disciple of Christ. This workshop provides an overview of why discerning readiness for rites is a critical aspect in the OCIA process as well as ways for participants and team members to mutually discern an individual's readiness. As a result of this workshop you will gain confidence in your ability to discern with an OCIA participant their readiness for the liturgical rites.
B-15:
Recruiting, Training, Maintaining Disciples all year long (A. Valencia)
Do you know which is the number one priority as a catechetical leader? It is not the children and youth in Faith Formation or Sacramental prep, nor their parents. This interactive training event will equip you with the tools and resources you need to build a strong and thriving team of catechists. Your number one priority is to ensure that your catechists are supported, inspired, and equipped to effectively share the Catholic faith with children, youth and adults in Faith Formation and Sacramental prep. This hands-on journey together will explore strategies and best practices for year-round catechist recruitment, encouragement, training, supervision, evaluation, retention, and celebration.
