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March 19, 2019Each year, the Catholic men's conference provides an opportunity to hear from dynamic Catholic speakers who urge men to become more faithful and loving with their Catholicism as well as with their family. It also is a chance for men to enjoy the fellowship with like-minded Catholics.
The one-day conference is an interactive experience as men can participate in the sacrament of reconciliation and take part in other events such as praying the Rosary.
Many men are excited to have the opportunity to see new and old friends. The event is more popular every year.
"It took us 23 years to have a sellout," Conference Director Ray Haefele told the packed conference room on March 9.
The 2019 conference was not only a sellout, but it reached capacity weeks before the event was held at the Embassy Suites Convention Center in Norman.
Haefele said they may look for an even larger venue next year to accommodate everyone who wants to come.
Haefele also gave recognition to the hundreds of men who were attending their first conference.
"I was surprised to see the number of first-time attendees," he said during a break.
One priest rented a bus and told his parish he needed to fill it for the conference.
"He got 45 guys to sign up."
Haefele said the younger attendees brought a new perspective to the group. He said clergy remains very supportive of the conference with 25 priests there to help with the sacrament of reconciliation. Also helping with the conference were many members of the Knights of Columbus, handling usher duties.
Pat Hoehne traveled to the conference from out of state. He is a member of Sacred Heart Catholic Church in Wichita Falls, Texas.
"I could come to this one or the one in Dallas," he said. "I like this one better. There are good speakers and the people here are so nice."
This was the sixth time he has made the two-hour trip. A friend of his, also from Wichita Falls, has attended every conference, except one a few years ago because of weather.
Year after year many of the same men continue to show up and help volunteer.
"I thought this was one of the best conferences in the several I've attended, thanks to a power-packed speaker lineup. Jason Evert navigated a very difficult, yet important topic masterfully," John Helsley said.
"I've long been fan of Father Larry Richards and again appreciated his straight-forward, bold and challenging message. Jon Leonetti and Father Roger Landry closed the afternoon with a vision of hope. And the addition of Steve Angrisano's uplifting music added a new and welcome layer to a day that was inspirational in every way."
Steve Gust is a freelance writer for the Sooner Catholic.
Photo: Miguel Mireles listens to speakers at the Catholic men’s conference. Photo Chris Porter/Sooner Catholic.
