Professional Documents
Culture Documents
BE FIRST TO BE INSPIRED
Introduction................................................................. page 2
This is gearing up to be the LARGEST virtual Eucharistic gathering in history. With the
conference falling on the Feast of Corpus Christi, it is so appropriate for us to experience
together what it means to be the Body of Christ.
At Virtual Catholic Conference™ (VCC) our goal is always to create massive global online
gatherings of Catholics to share and experience of their Faith over a jam-packed
conference weekend.
For the Eucharistic Conference, we saw an opportunity to focus specifically on the source
and summit of our Faith—Jesus in the Holy Eucharist. To this end, we have assembled
more than 50 presenters, clergy, and theologians to share their wisdom, insights, and
personal testimonies on the Eucharist.
We look forward to reading through your comments in the conference pages and seeing
you at our live-booths. We love that we can be ministered to as well during these powerful
weekends, and your enthusiasm and joy is your contribution to the power and impact of
this incredible weekend.
We hope you enjoy the weekend, and continue to stay in touch for future Virtual Catholic
Conferences ™.
Sincerely
Matt Ingold
Co-Founder,
Virtual Catholic Conference
After his studies at Auburn, he later obtained a Master’s degree in social work from the University of
Georgia and spent time as a case worker in Fulton County, Ga., protecting children from abuse and neglect.
He studied for the priesthood at Saint Meinrad Seminary and School of Theology in Indiana and obtained a
Master of Divinity degree in 1989. Bishop Talley was ordained to the priesthood on June 3, 1989, at the
Cathedral of Christ the King in Atlanta, Ga.
As a Priest of the Archdiocese of Atlanta, Bishop Talley served as a Parochial Vicar, Administrator and Pastor
of a number of parishes. From 1993 to 1998, Bishop Talley studied at Pontifical Gregorian University in
Rome, Italy, where he obtained a Doctorate in Canon Law. Bishop Talley also served as Judicial Vicar of the
Tribunal, as the Director of Vocations and as Chancellor of the Archdiocese. In 2001, he was named a
Chaplain to His Holiness Saint John Paul II, with the title “Monsignor.”
One of his roles in the Atlanta Archdiocese was as chaplain to the disabilities ministry. He has said his
experience ministering among people with disabilities, which began at his first parish assignment, is key to
his spiritual life. “All they can do is ask the Lord for help. That simplicity and humility is where I think the
church should be–humble before God,” he said in an interview in 2013.
On December 17, 2012, while serving as Pastor of Saint Brigid Church in Johns Creek, Ga., Pope Benedict
XVI named Monsignor Talley an Auxiliary Bishop of the Archdiocese of Atlanta, and he was ordained to the
episcopacy on April 2, 2013. His episcopal motto is Dabo Vobis Cor Novum, which is translated to: “I will
give you a new heart” (Ezekiel 36:26). During his time as an Auxiliary Bishop of the Archdiocese of Atlanta,
Bishop Talley served as Vicar General of the Archdiocese of Atlanta and Director of Priest Personnel, and he
was a member of the Council of Priests and the Committee for Ongoing Formation.
Prior to his announcement in Memphis, on September 21, 2016, Bishop Talley was appointed coadjutor
bishop of Alexandria, La. and on February 2, 2017, he became the 12th Bishop of the Catholic Diocese of
Alexandria, upon the retirement of Bishop Ronald P. Herzog.
Bio
Alex graduated from the University of Notre Dame as an engineer, went to work at McKinsey in Chicago,
and is the CEO of Hallow. He spends essentially all of his time focusing on making the product as great as it
can be.
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A graduate of Franciscan University of Steubenville, OH, Aly Aleigha is an Indie-Folk Singer/Songwriter and
Catholic Speaker from Duluth, MN. When she is not touring, Aly spends her days rock climbing cliffs that
plunge into beautiful Lake Superior or adventuring in some way. Aly's smoky voice and intimate lyrics have
held listeners captive since she began her musical career in 2015, when the Lord launched her on a journey
of spreading His message of hope, healing and joy through the release of her debut EP "Jealous Love." The
EP immediately gained traction, which encouraged Aly to form a band and release her full-length album,
“The Labyrinth” in 2016. Enrapturing listeners with her music and heart for sharing truths of the Catholic
faith, Aly Aleigha began a full-time career of Music & Speaking in 2017. In addition to touring with her
original music, she continuously leads Worship for Jeff Cavins' pilgrimages to the Holy Land, Steubenville
Youth Conferences, and the ministry Fr. Mike Schmitz. Aly and her band have performed at music festivals
alongside artists such as Bethel Music, The Newsboys, MercyMe, Sidewalk Prophets, and more. Aly is
currently working on new music and continuing to spread Christ's message of healing love, a mission rooted
in Isaiah 61:1-3 which says, "The Spirit of the Lord God is upon me, for He has anointed me to bring good
news to the afflicted, to bind up the broken hearted, to proclaim liberty to the prisoners and to set the
captives free."
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The Most Rev. Edward B. Scharfenberger was named the tenth Bishop of the Roman Catholic Diocese of
Albany by Pope Francis on February 11, 2014, and was ordained to the episcopacy on April 10, 2014, at the
Cathedral of the Immaculate Conception in Albany by Cardinal Timothy Dolan, Archbishop of New York.In
his six years as Bishop of Albany, Bishop Scharfenberger has been a national leader in responding to the
clergy abuse crisis. He is also a Consultor to the Pontifical Commission for Religious Relations with the Jews
and serves on the following committees and councils of the United States Conference of Catholic Bishops:
National Advisory Council, Ecumenical and Interreligious Affairs, Administrative Committee, Committee on
Priorities and Plans, and Subcommittee on the Church Africa.Born in Brooklyn in 1948, Bishop
Scharfenberger was ordained a priest of the Diocese of Brooklyn in 1973 at St. Peter’s Basilica. He earned a
licentiate in sacred theology from the Academy of St. Alphonsus, a licentiate in Canon Law from Catholic
University of America, a Juris Doctor of Law degree from Fordham University, and was admitted to the New
York State Bar in 1991.Bishop Scharfenberger served as Judicial Vicar for the Roman Catholic Diocese of
Brooklyn from 1993 to 2002 and as pastor of St. Matthias Church in Ridgewood (Queens) from 2003 to
2014. He also served as Promoter of Justice for the Brooklyn Diocese and was a member of the Diocesan
Review Board for Sexual Abuse of Minors; as Vicar for Strategic Planning; and as Episcopal Vicar for the
borough of Queens.
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Christopher Padgett
Having a relationship with Jesus is an imperative part of being a Catholic.
A relationship with Jesus helps us to relate, experience and know God's
love intimately. It is this relationship that laid the foundation for Chris
and his family to become Catholic, and it is this relationship with Jesus
that opened the door to a deeper appreciation for the intimacy
of the Eucharist.
Bio
Chris Padgett is a popular speaker, musician, and author who has traveled around the world for over 25
years, giving concerts, talks, parish missions, and retreats to all ages about the love and forgiveness of Jesus
Christ. A convert to Catholicism, he also taught at Franciscan University of Steubenville and currently
teaches with Catholic Distance University in between writing and speaking engagements. He and his wife,
Linda, have been married over twenty-nine years and have nine children. The Padgetts live in Central New
York in a nine-sided home with a donkey, goats, chickens, pigs and too many rabbits. Learn more about
Chris’s crazy family by following their channel, The Happy Place Homestead, on YouTube. Chris has
published numerous books and articles, and has been involved in video, television, and radio for many years.
His recent publications include, A Spirituality You Can Live With, Why the Eucharist Matters for Your Life,
and I'm Not OK, You're Not Ok, but It's OK.
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Christopher West is a devoted husband and father of five. As President of the Theology of the Body
Institute, he leads an international apostolate spreading St. John Paul II’s life-transforming teaching through
graduate level courses, on-site events and programs, clergy enrichment training, and an online global
community dedicated to ongoing formation. Beyond serving as Professor of Theological Anthropology in the
Institute’s jointly sponsored M.A. program with Pontifex University, Dr. West has served on the faculties of
St. John Vianney Theological Seminary in Denver; the Institute for Priestly Formation in Omaha; the St.
Therese Institute of Faith and Mission in Canada; and as a visiting professor of the John Paul II Institute in
Australia. West is the author of more than a dozen best-selling books and numerous video and audio
programs. He cohosts the popular podcast Ask Christopher West with his wife Wendy, and his work has
been featured in The New York Times, on ABC News, Fox News, MSNBC, and in countless Catholic and
evangelical media outlets.
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Curtis Martin is the founder and CEO of the Fellowship of Catholic University Students (FOCUS), one of the
fastest-growing college outreach apostolates in the Catholic Church. Archbishop Charles Chaput of
Philadelphia stated, “No one does a more dynamic job of reaching college students for Christ than FOCUS.”
FOCUS was founded in 1998 as a national outreach to college students on campus. Starting with just two
missionaries on one campus, FOCUS now has hundreds of full-time missionaries serving tens of thousands
of college students on campuses throughout the United States. FOCUS is working to play a vital role in the
New Evangelization called for by Pope Saint John Paul II.
Curtis Martin holds a master’s degree in theology and is the author of the best-selling book, “Made for
More.” Curtis is likewise the co-author of “The Real Story: Understanding the Big Picture of the Bible” with
Dr. Edward Sri and “Boys to Men: The Transforming Power of Virtue” with Dr. Tim Gray.
In 2004, Curtis and his wife, Michaelann, were awarded the Benemerenti Medal by Pope Saint John Paul II
for their outstanding service to the Church. In 2011, Pope Benedict XVI appointed Curtis as a Consultor to
the Pontifical Council of the New Evangelization. Curtis and Michaelann live in Westminster, Colorado. They
have been blessed with nine children.
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Dan Burke is a sinner and you shouldn't listen to him. Otherwise he was formerly the President and C.O.O.
of EWTN News. He now heads up the Avila Institute for Spiritual Formation which provides formation for
priests, religious and laity in over 70 countries. He has authored/edited fifteen books on authentic Catholic
Spirituality, is the co-host along with his wife Stephanie Burke of Divine Intimacy Radio, and he founded the
most widely read site on authentic Catholic spirituality, SpiritualDirection.com. Finally Dan is the founder of
a world wide community called Apostoli Viae which is focused on living the contemplative life, lighting the
way to others, and personally supporting faithful Catholics on their journey to God.
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Dan DeMatte is bringing revival in the Catholic Church by leading people into a personal encounter with
Jesus through the power of the Holy Spirit. With over 20 years of visionary leadership, Dan has brought the
Gospel internationally to hundreds of thousands of people through missions, retreats, camps, conferences,
and media outreach. Dan is the co-Founder and Executive Director of a cutting- edge missionary movement
called Damascus. In the last three years, Damascus has seen more than a 600% growth, serving over 10,000
youth each year and raising up 160 missionaries annually. Dan’s innovative leadership and training
techniques facilitate dynamic programs that lead to life-changing encounters with Jesus led by Spirit-Filled
missionary disciples.
Dan is the author of Catholic best-seller, Holiness Revolution, with the Dynamic Catholic Institute, as well as
co-authoring a book with his wife, Three Secrets to Holiness in Marriage. Dan is the co-host of the EWTN’s
global radio network radio program, Encounter. While in college, Dan starred on A&E’s reality TV series, God
or the Girl. He has witnessed to his Catholic faith on Larry King Live, The View, and the Today Show. He
holds a Masters Degree in Theology from the Pontifical College Josephinum. Dan and his wife Amber reside
in Columbus, Ohio with their four children.
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An energetic and fun speaker who is passionate about the Holy Spirit in our lives, Daniel Harms regularly
hosts and speaks at Youth and Young Adult Conferences around the country when not engaged in his Parish
Ministry in Richmond, VA.
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Deacon Jeff Drzycimski is a Permanent Deacon for the Diocese of Memphis in Tennessee. He is a speaker at
conferences, retreats and parishes, an author and the host of the nationally syndicated radio talk show and
podcast The Catholic Cafe, heard weekly on nearly 1000 stations worldwide - including EWTN, Guadalupe
Radio and Relevant Radio, as well as on Apple Podcasts. Visit the “Luxurious Corner Booth” of The Catholic
Cafe and listen online at www.thecatholiccafe.com. Deacon Jeff works as Director of Catechetical &
Sacramental Formation for the Diocese of Memphis. He and his wife of over 30 years have 9 children, and
are members of St. Louis Catholic Church in Memphis where he serves as deacon. For more about The
Catholic Cafe or to find out how to invite Deacon Jeff to speak at your event, send him an email at
deaconjeff@thecatholiccafe.com.
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• Deacon Larry Oney is a permanent deacon for the Catholic Archdiocese of New Orleans in Louisiana.
• He lives in New Orleans with his wife Andi and has five children
• He is the founder and president of Hope and Purpose Ministries which has brought him to nearly every
continent on earth preaching, teaching, and exhorting in the power of the Holy Spirit
• The main tenants of Hope and Purpose Ministries are proclaiming the kingdom of God (Matthew 10:7),
encouraging others that God has a plan and purpose for their lives (Jeremiah 29:11), and to help heal the
broken hearted (John 10:10b).
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Devanie Marie Cooper is a privately, consecrated woman, living in the world and serving our Lord in various
apostoles in her local Church as an entrepreneur. With experience in diverse industries and a talent for
management and marketing, she seeks to impact culture for Christ at the intersection of business and
theology. She is a graduate of John Paul the Great Catholic University where she studied business, the new
evangelization, and biblical theology.
Currently she manages St. Paul Institute, a non-profit she formed to further the 30+ year work in her local
Church of evangelization through a store-front model. She works to supply for the local sacramental and
church supply needs of her faith community while creating a space for Christian community and
evangelization in her much beloved, Memphis, Tennessee. She is deeply passionate about making our Lord
known and encouraging others in their relationship with Him. She can be followed on social media for daily
posts and live videos on faith, spirituality, and Christian living.
St. Paul Institute: www.stpaulmemphis.com
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Catholic Priest of the Diocese of Raleigh, North Carolina. Specialized in Ascetical and Mystical Theology in
Seminary. Creates content around the “Art of Living Well” and Leadership within the Church
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Sacerdote católico enamorado de la formación de hombres y mujeres jóvenes. Sus áreas involucran felicidad,
fe y cuestiones de vida y autodesarrollo. Tiene una licenciatura en Administración de Empresas en el Tec de
Monterrey, un grado de bachillerato en Filosofía y otra en Teología en el Regina Apostolorum de Roma.
Terminó su Maestría en Teología Bíblica en la Universidad Católica John Paul the Great en San Diego, CA.
Ha trabajado 14 años con muchas personas en 3 continentes. Actualmente sirviendo en Houston, Tx.
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Fr. Kevin Lixey is the International Director of the Patrons of the Arts in the Vatican Museums since 2017.
Originally from Flint, Michigan, Fr. Lixey was ordained a priest for the Congregation of the Legionaries of
Christ in 2001. Besides years of pastoral ministry in Atlanta, Georgia, Fr. Lixey was head of the Vatican
Sports Office in the Council for the Laity from 2004 to 2012. As International Director, Fr. Lixey oversees
the Patrons Office within the Vatican Museums and works with a worldwide network of art philanthropists
who are dedicated to promoting, restoring and conserving the artistic patrimony of the Vatican Museums,
one of the largest in the world.
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Father Larry Richards has been a priest since 1989 for the Diocese of Erie, Pennsylvania and he currently
serves as pastor of St. Joseph Church/Bread of Life Community in Erie. In 2004 Father founded The Reason
For Our Hope Foundation, a non-profit organization dedicated to‘spreading the Good News’ by educating
others about Jesus Christ and the Catholic faith through CDs, DVDs and books. He is the author of “Be a
Man! Becoming the Man God Created You to Be”, a #1 best seller for Ignatius Press, having sold over
100,000 copies. He also has a second book called “Surrender! The Life-Changing Power of Doing God’s Will”
published by Our Sunday Visitor which has sold over 40,000 copies. Father released a Catholic Men’s Bible,
NABRE, with Our Sunday Visitor in 2014, and also a Scripture Devotional Calendar entitled “No Bible, No
Breakfast! No Bible, No Bed!” Father hosts the EWTN radio show called “The Reason For Our Hope”, and a
live EWTN radio show called “Open Line”.
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Fr Martin Connor LC, born in Baltimore MD, grew up near Annapolis, one of eight children, the last two of
which are Legionary priests.Entered the Legionaries of Christ in 1990 after graduating from Boston College
with degrees in Philosophy and Theology. He also holds degrees in Philosophy and Theology from the
Pontifical Atheneum Regina Apostolorum in Rome. Ordained to the priesthood in January 2001 in Rome
with his brother Fr John Connor LC. Spent his first 7 years of his priesthood in Dublin Ireland wher he was
chaplain to a School and Director of a Family Center and taught extensively on Theology of the Body. From
2007-2010 he worked as chaplain to the Youth programs of Regnum Christi that run in Northern Ohio and
Indiana and Michigan. Since 2011 he has been part of the national Clergy board of the Institute of Theology
of the Body Institute in Philadelphia. He is currently working in Atlanta GA as a spiritual director and retreat
director and chaplain to Three To Get Married marriage prep program. He continues to teach TOB in his
retreat and marriage prep work locally.
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Father Paul Scalia is Pastor of Saint James Church in Falls Church, Virginia and Vicar for Clergy in the
Diocese of Arlington, Virginia. He is the author of That Nothing May be Lost and editor of Sermons in Times
of Crisis.
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Pastor Asociado de la Catedral
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Fr Sean Kilcawley is a 1996 graduate of the United States Military Academy at West Point. In 1999 he left
active military service to enter the seminary for the Diocese of Lincoln and was ordained a priest in 2005. In
2013, Fr Kilcawley completed a License in Sacred Theology from the John Paul II institute for marriage and
family studies at the Lateran University in Rome. Since 2014 he has served as the director of the Office for
Family Life in the Diocese of Lincoln.
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Greg Wasinski is an internationally recognized, full - time, Catholic Inspirational Speaker, Author, and Radio
Host from Cleveland, OH. Greg is heard daily on SiriusXM Radio’s, The Catholic Channel with his “Faith &
Real Life Moments.” Since giving up his career in Corporate Business in 2009, Greg has become one of the
most compelling voices in the church to help others find faith in the real world while once again
understanding the beauty of why they believe what they believe. He draws from real life experiences,
scriptural reflection and specific “God instances” to creatively illustrate how God is at work in all of us. The
mission of his ministry is to inspire individuals, encourage community, and restore the value of family
through faith. Greg is married 25 years and has two young adult children. He holds a Certificate in Catholic
Scriptural Catholic Theology from John Paul the Great University in Escondido, CA. More information and
inspiration can be found at www.FaithandRealLife.com
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Jack Beers
At the age of 19 Jack Beers was surprised by an encounter with the living
God at Mass. Through an entertaining and inspiration story, Jack shares
how the Mass truly is the source and summit of the Catholic Faith
Bio
Jack Beers has been sharing the joy he has found in a personal and dynamic relationship with God since
coming into the Catholic Church in 2012. Jack married his wonderful bride Katie in May of 2019 and they
are expecting their first child in April. For the last five years Jack has been serving the mission of Dynamic
Catholic with the last two as the Co-Leader of Dynamic Parish.
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Jason Shanks
In the Eucharist we find our hearts desire, our Beloved. Come hear Jason
Shanks, a convert to the Catholic faith, discuss a journey to participate in
the divine life thru the gift of the Eucharist.
Bio
Jason Shanks is President of the OSV Institute. Prior to OSV, Jason served as Chief Executive Officer of
Catholic Charities of Southeast Michigan (CCSEM). Here he successfully combined and reorganized five
separate county-based Catholic social service agencies into one regional service agency that assists more
than 20,000 people annually for the Archdiocese of Detroit.Prior to Catholic Charities of Southeast
Michigan, Jason was Secretariat Leader of Evangelization and Parish for the Diocese of Toledo. Earlier in his
career, his involvement in Youth Ministry and Business and Pastoral Administration provided him with
strong parish experience.Jason has a Bachelor's degree in Education from Miami University, Oxford, OH; a
Master's degree in Theology from Pontifical College Josephinum, Columbus, OH; and a Master's degree in
Nonprofit Administration from Mendoza College of Business of Notre Dame, Notre Dame, IN. He also holds
a Certificate in Fund Raising Management from Indiana University Lilly Family School of Philanthropy,
Indianapolis, IN.
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In her past, she has modeled for well-known brands such as Jergens, was on a billboard in Times Square,
appeared on numerous book covers, films and news interviews. Joelle was also the founder/CEO of a luxury
line of anti-aging makeup, which was featured on NBC and in Vanity Fair.
In 2012, she had a major encounter with Jesus and in His mercy, was given another chance to love and lead
others to Him. After years in ministry, she now speaks full time and works with youth and adults to cultivate
spiritual growth in their lives and to have a personal relationship with Jesus through her talks and the healing
power of prayer, music and the sacraments
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John Edwards
John's first 10 years of being Catholic were spent going through the
motions. Listen in as John explains how one encounter with the real
presence of our Lord in the Eucharist changed the course of his life
forever and how becoming a daily communicate gave him the strength he
needed to become the man God called him to be.
Bio
John Edwards is the founder and executive director of Pew Ministries, a Catholic apostolate with the mission
of bringing the person of Jesus Christ to the person in the pew. John is also a catholic speaker and evangelist
that has spoken in Canada and across the United States and has been featured on catholic media such as the
RISE Membership, The Guadalupe Radio Network, The Jon Leonetti Show, Hard as Nails, and EWTN’s
Catholic Cafe. John is the host of the popular Just A Guy in the Pew Podcast (www.justaguyinthepew.com)
and is a columnist for the West Tennessee Faith Magazine. John is also the cofounder of the Virtual Catholic
Conference. John’s greatest blessing is being the husband to Angela and the father to Jacob, Allison, and
Katelyn. He and his family live in Memphis, TN.
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John Sablan
Join John as he talks about the role of the Eucharist in his own
conversion back to God and the Catholic Church and how critical it is for
us to embrace this most sacred sacrament in our daily lives to evangelize
a broken world.
Bio
John Sablan is co-founder and president of World Ablaze Inc., a Catholic apostolate dedicated to discipleship
and evangelization. By day, John is a technology executive with a MBA and BS in Computer Information
Systems. John is also Catholic Speaker & Evangelist and has been featured on EWTN, Ave Maria and Sacred
Heart Radio programs. He is the co-author and co-host along with Deacon Harold Burke-Sivers of Real Men
produced by Shalom World Media and is also featured on the men’s spirituality series of That Man Is You! as
well as Men Rise Up, and What's Holding You Back Series produced by Cardinal Studios. John received his
graduate certificate in theology from Augustine Institute and is currently working on his Master’s Degree in
Moral Theology from Holy Apostles College and Seminary. John is also a life professed Third Order
Dominican. John’s greatest gifts are his beloved bride Nichole and their three children and grand daughter.
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John and his wife Kristin currently reside in northwest Ohio with their five children. John is a mobile eye
doctor, and he travels to over 50 nursing homes and developmental disability facilities to provide eye care
through his business, Mobile Eyes, LLC, which he started in 2007.
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Jon Leonetti
The greatest gift God could ever give is Himself for the life of the world.
And God did in the Eucharist. Eucharistic devotions (i.e. Holy
Communion, Adoration) are what drove the saints in holiness. Yes, better
than anyone, the saints understood the power of the Eucharist. And we
should too.
Bio
JON LEONETTI is a nationally known Catholic speaker, best-selling author and radio host who conveys a
message of lasting fulfillment in Jesus Christ. Through Jon's keynote presentations and parish missions,
thousands of Catholics each year discover the freedom Christ offers by way of his life and love. Jon's the
author of three books: Mission Of The Family, Your God Is Too Boring and, The Art of Getting Over
Yourself: And Why You'll Be Happier When You Do. Jon's first two books are published and featured in
Matthew Kelly's Dynamic Catholic Book Program. Jon's writings and talks have been endorsed by
Archbishop Joseph E. Kurtz, New York Times Bestselling author Immaculee Ilibagiza, Mark Hart, Chris
Stefanick, Brandon Vogt and more.
Jon believes that our deepest longing for happiness and wholeness is fulfilled in the encounter with Jesus
Christ. Through prayer, the Sacraments, family life, and the help of Mary and the saints, Jon wants to
cultivate an intimate relationship with Jesus, and help others do the same. With this message Jon has been
featured and interviewed by the nations top Catholic websites, blogs and radio shows, helping Catholics in
all walks of life to fall in love and stay in love with the living God. At home, Jon enjoys reading, sports,
exercising, coffee and, most of all, spending time with his wife Teresa and their three children. Jon has a
masters degree in moral theology.
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Bio
Jonathan Roumie—actor-director-producer & musician—is best known for his groundbreaking role in the
popular series The Chosen, the #1 crowdfunded media project in history, currently streaming in every
country on the planet. He has also appeared on “Chicago Med”, The Mindy Project,” “The Good Wife,” “The
Newsroom,” “Law and Order,” and “NCIS,” among other shows. Some of his notable Voice-Over work
includes voice-matching Michael Douglas for Marvel's "Antman and Wasp" and British actor, Henry Golding
in "Crazy Rich Asians". He serves as VP on the boards of two non-profits media companies, Catholics in
Media Associates and The G.K. Chesterton Theatre Co., and was recently nominated for Papal Knighthood
by the Order of St. Gregory the Great.
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Bio
Justin Fatica has been an international itinerant speaker for over 20 years, speaking in 4 countries and 46
states. He is a graduate of Seton Hall University with a Bachelor of Arts in Philosophy and Elementary
Education and Master of Arts in Education. Justin has been featured on numerous media outlets, including
an HBO film about his life and a weekly show on EWTN called “You’re Amazing with Justin Fatica.” Justin is
the author of 5 books, 2 of which are best sellers. Since the beginning of 2017, Justin has gained over 1
million views on his weekly Facebook Live Videos with EWTN. He is currently serving as the Main Speaker
and Executive Director of Hard as Nails Ministries. Justin resides in Syracuse, NY, with his five children and
beautiful wife Mary Elizabeth Fatica.
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Katie Prejean McGrady is an international Catholic speaker and author. She travels extensively around the
world speaking to audiences of all ages and sizes about faith, culture, family, evangelization, youth and
young adult ministry, education, and discipleship. Katie is the project manager of Ave Explores, an initiative
from Ave Maria Press, as well as a columnist for Catholic News Service, a writer for Blessed is She, and she
contributes pieces regularly to the Grotto Network, Life Teen, and America Magazine. Katie hosts 2
podcasts: The Electric Waffle and Ave Explores. She has her degree in Theology from the University of
Dallas and lives in Louisiana with her family.
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He is the author of four books and a contributor to several others. Marcel has written articles for many
national Catholic magazines, newspapers, and websites. He is a regular guest on national Catholic Radio and
TV. His most recent book is " The Contagious Catholic: The Art of Practical Evangelization" (Ascension,
2020). His book, " Cleansed: A Catholic Guide to Freedom From Porn" (Pauline, 2016) was a 1st place
winner in the Catholic Press Association's book awards.
The most important part of his life, and his vocation, is being a husband and father. Marcel and his wife,
Kristy, have five children.
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Mary Bielski
During this season many find it difficult to find hope. Reflecting on
Romans 5:5 and the Church teaching, Mary will break open the
understanding of Hope and How each to enter into the process of
becoming.
Bio
National Speaker and Life Coach: As an evangelist, Mary has spoken to over 100,000 adults and youth
globally. Her mission is to ignite the church to the transformative power and love of Christ, and a radical life
given totally to Him. Mary has her masters in Theological Studies at Notre Dame Seminary in New Orleans,
LA. Through engaging story telling, personal witness, and one-on-one coaching, she draws her audience,
every person, to beauty of their Catholic faith, a deeper love for Christ, the Eucharist, and the call to
holiness. Be His. Be Brave. Be You. For more info go to marybielski.com
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Bio
Matt Fradd speaks to tens of thousands of people every year. He is the best-selling author of several books,
including Does God Exist?, The Porn Myth, and Marian Consecration With Aquinas. Matt’s podcast Pints
With Aquinas receives hundreds of thousands of downloads every month.
Matt earned his master’s and undergraduate degrees in philosophy from Holy Apostles College.
His new course STRIVE: A 21-Day Detox from Porn equips men with the tools needed to quit porn for good.
Matt lives with his wife, Cameron, and their children in Georgia.
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Mike Aquilina
In the stories of the martyrs of the early Church, we find the secret to
perseverance in our own everyday struggles. It is, now as then, the Mass.
Bio
Mike Aquilina is the author of more than sixty books on Church history, doctrine, and devotion. He is
executive vice-president of the St. Paul Center for Biblical Theology; a contributing editor for Angelus News;
and host of "The Way of the Fathers," a podcast produced by CatholicCulture.org.
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Nathaniel Binversie
What if I told you the Eucharist wasn’t necessarily enough to get you to
heaven? It isn’t. What if I could prove it to you in Scripture? I can. Want
to get way more out of your relationship with Jesus Christ? Watch this
talk and learn what you can do today, to enhance the way you relate to
Jesus Christ, forever.
Bio
Nathaniel Binversie is the author of the Exodus 90 Spiritual Exercise, host of the Exodus 90 Show: a podcast
for men; husband, father, and parishioner at St. John the Baptist parish in Fort Wayne, Indiana. Before he
worked for Exodus he worked in collegiate ministry, including three years with FOCUS (The Fellowship of
Catholic University Students). Nathaniel holds degrees in Philosophy, Catholic Studies, and a Masters in
Theology. Though he has seen the Lord call him to use his mind in fantastic ways he is certain that it is his
knees that are most valuable to both his family and to mission. On top of that he wants you to know he
loves big mountain skiing.
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Pete Burak
Jesus came to seek and save the lost. Faith, repentance, and obedience
actually matter because our eternal destiny is in the balance. "Unless you
eat the flesh of the Son of Man, and drink his blood, you shall not have
life." (John 6:53) Jesus lovingly reveals the pathway to his Father and
gives us the necessary food for the journey. The world needs to know the
abundant power we have in the Eucharist so people can turn from
Bio darkness and live in the light of Christ.
Pete Burak is the director of id, the young adult outreach of Renewal Ministries. He is a 2010 graduate of
Franciscan University of Steubenville, and has a Master’s Degree in Theology from Sacred Heart Major
Seminary in Detroit, Michigan. Pete is a frequent speaker on discipleship and evangelization, and he is the
co-director of Pine Hills Boys Camp. He is the co-founder of the Millennial Church Conference, a monthly
columnist for Faith Magazine, the host of the weekly podcast The Hour, and a member of the USCCB Young
Adult Advisory Committee. Pete and his wife Cait have four children.
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Bio
Dr. Martin is the Director of Graduate Theology Programs in the New Evangelization at Sacred Heart Major
Seminary in the Archdiocese of Detroit. He is also the President of Renewal Ministries
(www.renewalministries.net) which is engaged in evangelization throughout the world. This includes the
longest running weekly Catholic TV program, The Choices We Face, two daily radio programs, a YouTube
channel and mission work in more than 40 countries. He is the author of the widely read The Fulfillment of
All Desire, and many other books and articles. He is married, the father of 6 and grandfather of 19 and lives
in Ann Arbor, Michigan with his wife Anne.
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Sam Guzman
We are not just called to receive the Eucharist, we are called to become
the Eucharist by living lives of praise and sacrificial self-gift. This talk will
use examples from the lives of the saints to illustrate how we can live
these truths.
Bio
Sam Guzman is an author of the book of The Catholic Gentleman: Living Authentic Manhood today, and he
is the founder and editor of The Catholic Gentleman media apostolate. His work has appeared in numerous
publications. He resides in Oklahoma with his wife and four children.
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Sarah Christmyer
When the problems pile up: do you practice stress or do you practice
trust? The Lord doesn’t want us to worry. But what seems simple can be
hard to do! Join Sarah Christmyer as she shares St. Paul’s secret for
turning anxiety into peace.
Bio
Sarah Christmyer connects Catholics to Christ through Scripture with her books and Bible studies, her blog,
and her teaching and speaking. Her latest book is Becoming Women of the Word: How to Answer God’s Call
with Purpose and Joy (Ave Maria Press). She is an adjunct faculty member at St. Charles Borromeo Seminary
in Philadelphia and is co-developer and founding editor of The Great Adventure Catholic Bible study
program. She has been a guest on EWTN's "The Journey Home" and on Relevant Radio, Breadbox Media,
Radio Maria, Iowa Catholic Radio, and Holy Spirit Radio. You can follow her blog and contact Sarah at her
website, ComeIntotheWord.com.
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Sonja Corbitt
Mary doesn’t just sing or say the Magnificat, Mary IS the Magnificat; she
"shows" the Word to the world. Through her Magnificat, Mary invites us
to pray with her in a way that incarnates the word in us, so that we can
offer our own magnificat to the world, and become a monstrance too.
Bio
Sonja makes Bible study spinach taste like cake, through speaking events, studies, books, her CatholicTV
show, and weekly podcast. She’s a Catholic scripture teacher with a story teller’s gift – a warrior’s heart, a
poet’s pen, and a tongue of fire. Her LOVE the Word® initiative and other Bible study media create space
for busy Christians to hear and experience God as they love and lift all He has given them (John 17).
My takeaways/questions:
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Bio
Sr. Marie Veritas, SV was born and raised in Alberta, Canada. Deeply moved by the beauty of the truth of
God's love for the human person, and experiencing a profound call to consecration, she entered the Sisters
of Life in 2010, after graduating from the University of Alberta. She professed her final vows in 2018, and
currently serves as the community's director of evangelization and a co-host of Let Love: A podcast with the
Sisters of Life, residing at St. Frances de Chantal Convent in the Bronx, NY. The Sisters of Life are a religious
community of women founded in 1991 by John Cardinal O’Connor who take a fourth vow to protect and
enhance the sacredness of human life. Immersed in Eucharistic prayer within a vibrant community life, their
missions include caring for vulnerable pregnant women and their unborn children; inviting those wounded
by abortion into the healing mercy of Jesus; fostering a culture of life through evangelization; retreat works;
spiritual accompaniment of college students; and upholding the beauty of marriage and family life.
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Stacey Sumereau’s unique journey spans performing in Broadway National Tours of “The Wizard of Oz” and
“Beauty and the Beast” to discerning religious life on Reality TV in “The Sisterhood, Becoming Nuns,” to
marriage and motherhood. Stacey is the founder of the Be Not Afraid Conference and has presented at the
National Catholic Youth Conference, the LA Religious Education Congress, and dioceses across the country
encouraging young people to know their worth and to embrace God’s adventure. Stacey is the founder of
the Be Not Afraid Conference and hosts the popular Called and Caffeinated Podcast. She writes for
Vocations and Prayer Magazine and iMom.com. She and her husband John are raising their feisty "Irish
twins" in the Washington, D.C. area.
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Stephanie Burke
A reflection on the fiat that can change the course of every soul.
Bio
Stephanie Burke serves as the Executive Director of the Avila Foundation which serves the Church through
the Avila Institute for Spiritual Formation, the High Calling Seminary Preparation Program and
SpiritualDirection.com. Stephanie is co-host, along with her husband Dan, of EWTN’s Divine Intimacy Radio.
She has successfully served in school administration for over 25 years in both Catholic and secular
institutions. Stephanie has committed her life to the study, formation and promotion of authentic Catholic
spirituality. She is grateful to serve alongside her husband, Dan, in the important work of the Avila
Foundation and Apostoli Viae. They are parents of four amazing adult children, one grandchild and spend
their lives serving the Church.
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William Albrëcht was raised in a non-believing household and eventually became a Reformed Baptist. After
many years as a youth leader and minister he converted to the Catholic faith. He has a B.A. in Theology and
is an international speaker and debater, having participated in over 50 live and moderated debates. William
runs a website dedicated to the Early Church Fathers that includes unique translations, articles,
commentaries, and debates on the Fathers. As well as running PatristicPillars.com, William is a frequent co-
host on Reason & Theology and their Resident debater on the platform.
My takeaways/questions:
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Damascus Worship
Releasig their new album Awake My Soul on June 12, 2020, Damascus
Worship is growing into one of the most sought after Catholic Praise and
Worship leaders in the world.
Aly Aliegha
Aly Aleigha is an Indie-Folk Singer/Songwriter as well as a Catholic
Speaker / Worship Leader from Duluth, MN. When she is not touring,
she spends her days rock climbing cliffs that plunge into beautiful Lake
Superior and enjoying the beauty of creation.
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the the Virtual Catholic Conference Team
The Virtual Catholic Conference Guidebook is intellectual property protected by copyright law.
The information contained in this book is for informational purposes only. By reading this book
and implementing any general suggestions or using the recommended products, you agree that
you are responsible for your results relating to any information presented within.
The information provided in this book is not intended to diagnose or treat any psychological
condition. I cannot guarantee the outcome of following the advice provided and the statements
of the hosts and the speakers about the potential outcomes are expressions of opinion only.
Following the advice provided is at your own risk.
The material in this guide may include information or products by third parties. Third party
materials comprise the products and opinions expressed by their owners. As such, I do not
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The publication of such third party materials does not constitute my guarantee of any
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Publication of such third party materials is simply a recommendation and an expression of my
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