STEUBENVILLE, OH—In a Church and world still recovering from the isolation, loneliness, and spiritual decline resulting from the COVID-19 pandemic, the celebrated Steubenville Conferences will provide much-needed encounters with Christ and community with others this summer. That will be the focus of Franciscan University of Steubenville’s 48th summer season of adult and youth conferences, as attendees enjoy inspirational speakers, engaging workshops, uplifting fellowship, and exciting opportunities for a life-changing encounter with Christ.

“Our experience during the pandemic was a powerful reminder why being together is so important,” said Father Dave Pivonka, TOR ’89, president of Franciscan University. “There is a reason why spiritual revivals don’t happen online. They only happen when we gather as a family of faith. We have been hosting Spirit-filled summer conferences for almost 50 years, but I believe this year is going to be special.”

Mark Joseph, vice president of the Franciscan Center for Evangelization and Renewal, agrees.

“At a Steubenville Conference, participants can experience their faith in a way like never before,” he said. “Yes, it’s the vibrant praise and worship, the inspiring talks that speak to real-life issues, the joy of being with so many like-minded, faith-filled people. But more than any of those, it’s Jesus. It’s Jesus in the Liturgy; it’s Jesus in Eucharistic Adoration; it’s Jesus in confession. His unconditional love is the heart and soul of our conferences, and it changes lives and captures hearts every time.”

In addition to 5 adult conferences in Steubenville, Franciscan University will host 4 youth conferences in Steubenville as well as conferences in 12 cities across the United States and Canada. Host cities include Duluth, Georgia; Springfield, Massachusetts; Orlando, Florida; Irving, Texas; Springfield, Missouri (2); St. Paul and Rochester, Minnesota; Tucson, Arizona; Spokane, Washington; Denver, Colorado; Alexandria, Louisiana; and Halifax, Nova Scotia.

Kicking off the adult conference summer schedule, the Power and Purpose Conference will be held June 9-11. Focused on the theme “Faith, Hope, Love,” this conference takes participants on a journey to come fully alive in faith, freedom, and joy of the Holy Spirit. Hosted by Deacon Ralph Poyo with worship led by Deacon Bob Rice, the conference will feature Father Pivonka, Mary Bielski, Deacon Harold Burke-Sivers, Mari Pablo, and John Beaulieu.

The Priests, Deacons, and Seminarians Retreat, June 12-16, will address the theme, “This Is My Body.” This conference will renew the call and reinvigorate the passion for ordained ministry through hospitality, fellowship, prayer, and a profound encounter with Christ. Hosted by Father Pivonka and worship leader John Paul Von Arx, speakers include Deacon Ralph Poyo, Dr. John Bergsma, and John Beaulieu. Seminarians are invited to attend free of charge.

The St. John Bosco Conference, July 17-20, is for all those who hand on the faith to others, including those seeking certification or additional training in campus ministry, catechetics, youth ministry, the Rite of Christian Initiation for Adults, and religious education. Focusing on the theme, “From the Father’s Heart,” the conference offers more than 75 workshops, moving worship, and outstanding fellowship to rejuvenate each participant’s life and mission. Featured speakers include Bishop Andrew Cozzens, Katie Prejean McGrady, Dr. James Pauley, Father Jonathan St. André, TOR, and many more dynamic experts from around the world.

Hosted by Dr. Scott Hahn with worship leader Deacon Bob Rice, the Applied Biblical Studies Conference will be held July 26-28. The conference theme, “The Transforming Power of God’s Holiness,” focuses on the primacy of the commandment, “You shall be holy, for I the Lord your God am holy” (Lev. 19:2). Featured speakers and world-renowned Scripture scholars include Jeff Cavins, Mike Aquilina, Dr. John Bergsma, Dr. Edward Sri, Kimberly Hahn, Dr. Michael Dauphinais, Clement Harrold, Marcus Peter, and Father Charles Samson.

Wrapping up the summer conference season, the Defending the Faith Conference, July 28-30, will focus on “Hope and Holiness.” During these trying times, this conference will inspire courage and confidence, sending participants forth to share the Lord’s truth and love with joy. Joining host Dr. Scott Hahn and worship leader Deacon Bob Rice are speakers Noelle Mering, Jeff Cavins, Deacon Harold Burke-Sivers, Michael Gormley, Kimberly Hahn, Clement Harrold, Trent Horn, Father Jeff Kirby, Patrick Madrid, and Dr. Edward Sri.

Franciscan University’s 2023 Youth Conferences will center on the theme, “Refuge.” Featuring inspiring and beloved speakers such as Father Mike Schmitz, Sister Miriam James Heidland, SOLT, Chris Stefanick, Jason Evert, Bishop Joseph Espaillat, and Jackie Francois, the conferences are expected to reach up to 50,000 teens. For the complete 2023 Youth Conference schedule, plus details about registration, speakers, and musicians, visit www.steubenvilleconferences.com/youth.

For more information and online registration for adult conferences, visit www.steubenvilleconferences.com.