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Share the Faith
Catechists, teachers, youth ministers, and diocesan and parish leaders—the St. John Bosco Conference is for you! More than a conference, it’s a retreat with Jesus, the Master Catechist. Get inspired with engaging talks, be strengthened through the sacraments, and leave empowered to evangelize and share the Good News.
Connect, Belong, and Grow Together
At the St. John Bosco Conference, you’ll join a community filled with other teachers of the faith where you can build lasting friendships and experience the joy of Catholic fellowship on Franciscan University’s campus in Steubenville, Ohio.
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Evening Socials – Unwind and connect with others in a relaxed, joyful setting.
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Shared Mealtimes – Enjoy great conversations over great food.
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Special Events – Enjoy unique moments that make each conference unforgettable.
You belong here.
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Meet the Team
Deacon Bob Rice
Deacon Bob Rice lives in the Diocese of Steubenville with his wife, Jennifer, and seven children. He is a professor of catechetics at Franciscan University of Steubenville, where he teaches courses on Scripture, youth ministry, and music ministry. He travels around the country preaching about Jesus and leading worship. He also does a weekly podcast with Franciscan University President Father Dave Pivonka, TOR, called “They That Hope.” Learn more about him at deaconbobrice.com.
Father John Riccardo
Fr. John was ordained a priest of the Archdiocese of Detroit in 1996. In 2019, after 23 years in parish ministry, he founded Acts XXIX to proclaim the gospel in an attractive and compelling way and to equip clergy and lay leaders for the age in which God has chosen us to live. Fr. John is a graduate of the University of Michigan, the Gregorian University, and the Pope John Paul II Institute for Studies on Marriage and the Family.
Bishop Tebartz-Van Elst
Petroc Willey
Dr. Petroc Willey is professor of theology (catechetics) at Franciscan University. He previously worked in Catholic higher education in Oxford and Birmingham for about 30 years. Dr. Willey gained his first degree in theology from King's College London and an STL from Maynooth, Ireland. He has doctorates in philosophy from Liverpool University and the Lateran Pontifical University. He was appointed by Pope Benedict XVI as a consultor to the Pontifical Council for the Promotion of the New Evangelization. Dr. Willey and his wife, Katherine, have four children.
Amy Roberts
Amy Roberts taught high school for 13 years and served as chair of the religion department for 10 years before joining the Catechetics faculty of Franciscan University of Steubenville in 2011. She holds a bachelor’s degree in English from University of Tennessee at Chattanooga, a master’s degree in Theology and Christian Ministry from Franciscan University, and a Ph.D. from The University of Notre Dame Australia. Her dissertation, Encountering the Living God: The Integral Formation of Teachers in Catholic Elementary and Secondary Schools, examined the Church’s vision for forming teachers as witnesses. She regularly speaks at professional development programs for teachers in Catholic schools.
Jake Khym
Add-ons
Housing Options: $175-$460/person Meal Plan: $138/person See registration page for more details.
Testimonials
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“This conference gave me the extra push I needed to step up and be bolder in my ministry! It’s so beautiful to be strengthened by the sacraments, mentored by the amazing speakers, and uplifted by the other participants who are running towards the same goal. This conference is a must for anyone in ministry.”
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“The St. John Bosco Conference was exactly what I needed as someone involved with Youth Ministry in my parish. The sessions provided were both engaging and informative, with a balance in doctrinal and spiritual formation. I left the conference feeling renewed and energized for my role in the New Evangelization!”
FAQs
When does registration open?
You can register for an Adult Conference on December 4, 2024.
Can teenagers come to an adult conference?
Yes, teenagers between 13 and 17 years old are welcome to attend our Adult Conferences when accompanied by a parent or legal guardian. However, please note the following:
- Housing: Teens are not permitted to stay in on-campus housing and must arrange separate housing accommodations with their parent/guardian off-campus. If you need recommendations for off-campus housing, feel free to contact us.
- Liability Waiver: A completed Adult Conference Youth Liability Form must be brought to check-in.
- Discounted Rate: We offer a discounted registration rate for teenagers. To take advantage of this discount, please contact us before registering:
- Phone: (740) 283-6315
- Email: conferences@franciscan.edu
We’re happy to help ensure your teen’s participation is a meaningful and seamless experience!