The Catholic Messenger
SOLON — Two conferences — one for men, one for women — will focus on what it means to be Christian today.
“Discover Anew Your Beauty, Worth and Purpose . . . As God’s Beloved Daughter” for women will be held Feb. 20 from 8:30 a.m. to 4 p.m. at St. Mary Parish.
Kelly Wahlquist, a wife, mother of three, author and speaker from Minnesota, will address God’s calling, what a 21st century woman disciple looks like and the role of women in family, church and society. She is the author of “Created to Relate,” which inspires women to live fully their God-given gifts to build his kingdom.
Barbara Heil was a widow for eight years before marrying Jeff. They have eight children and 10 grandchildren. She has ministered in 45 nations as a missionary, evangelist and pastor. She will talk on how to win a Catholic; and life in the kingdom: God is calling.
Mary Beth Helgens of Cedar Rapids has been married for 31 years and has four children and four grandchildren. Her coaching company, “The Well Woman” uses faith to help others live abundant and joyfully. She will talk about how God uses “cracked pots.”
“Be Strong in the Lord” for men will be held Feb. 27 from 8:30 a.m. to 4 p.m. at the parish.
Father Mike Phillips, a retired priest of the diocese, served in education and in parishes and will speak on what it means to be a real Christian man and a man of mercy.
Devin Schadt is married and has five children. He is an author and speaker and cofounder of the Fathers of St. Joseph, an apostolate that works for the renewal of authentic fatherhood. He will speak on secrets to becoming a father on earth and what if every man discovered his true identity, power and necessity.
Nathaniel Gee is a convert to Catholicism and spent a year discerning the Dominican Order of religious life. He has served in college campus ministry and teaches theology at Wahlert High School in Dubuque. He will talk on personal encounter with God’s mercy and intimacy with God.
The cost to attend either conference is $20. No one will be turned away if he/she cannot pay the fee.
For more information or to register by Feb. 14 for women and Feb. 21 for men, contact Julie Agne at (319) 624-2228 or email julie@solonstmary.org.
