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34th Annual
East Coast Conference
for Religious Education
Celebrating the Body of Christ
"Come and See" the disciples were told when they asked Jesus where he was staying. So too, we invite you to come and see the life-giving experience of the East Coast Conference for Religious Education. You’ll join others from dioceses, parishes and schools all across the country and beyond, coming together at the Marriott Wardman Park Hotel in Washington, DC on February 17–19, 2006 to Celebrate the Body of Christ.
With this theme you’ll actually experience liturgical catechesis, while exploring its meaning and seeing practical applications for its use. Starting with the fact that the Eucharist is held to be the Source and Summit of the Life and Mission of the Church, it should, therefore, be central in the life of the Church and in our faith communities. But is this the reality that the majority of us experience? Mark Searle once wrote that “most people seem to consider it more a source than a summit … more a matter of sustenance than a thing of ecstasy.”
This year’s conference goal is to help you make it not only a pivotal “source” but also a soaring “summit” in your ministry. And we’ll do it with an integrated approach to all aspects of community formation and worship — breaking down the walls that separate them. We’ve gathered experts in various ministries to bring you the latest and best information and experiences. There’ll be many fabulous sessions to assist you in being more effective in your particular ministry setting.
And that’s just the beginning. Our major gatherings at the conference will be inspiring and creative moments you won’t want to miss.
On Friday, our opening keynote will be a totally unique experience led by Msgr. Ray East, nationally known inspirational speaker and revivalist, and gifted author and speaker, Rita Ferrone, who will be joined by a talented array of prominent artists.
Saturday will feature renowned theologian and liturgist, Fr. Ed Foley, Cap, who will explore the connection between receiving the Body of Christ and becoming the Body of Christ. And later in the day — the St. Louis Jesuits are back ready to share their songs and sense of hope for all God’s people in this East Coast premier.
Sunday morning offers a complimentary breakfast while we model how to extend our celebration as the Body of Christ into our homes, parishes, and communities in a dynamic and memorable way.
In addition, our conference concert is always a highlight along with relaxing and informal social gatherings. Then there are all of the opportunities to be uplifted and moved through our prayer offerings, especially in the conference Eucharist.
This is a great opportunity for expanding your catechetical, evangelizing and liturgical capacities with leading authors, theologians, practitioners and artists. And you’ll find the latest and best products and services to support your ministries in our expansive exhibit hall on Friday and Saturday.
You’ll also want to come early on Thursday evening, February 16, for our pre-conference Exhibitors’ Showcase, where leading publishers and service organizations will introduce their new programs and resources during 45-minute presentations.
The whole experience of the conference aims to give us an enriching experience of both the “source” and “summit” along with new ways to “bring it home” to your communities in the right way. Nathan Mitchell observes in making the connection of leadership at the Last Supper to liturgies that are celebrated and lived well today, “… in the midst of that meal the night before he died, Jesus was the one kneeling, with a bowl of dirty water in his hands.” And after washing their feet he told the disciples in John’s Gospel, “I have given you an example so that as I have done you also must do.”
Celebrating the Body of Christ is about a time of transformation — of the bread and wine and the lives of those who are taking part. I invite you to join us at this year’s conference — and Come and See!
Sincerely,
Tim Ragan
National Center for Pastoral Leadership
PS — Conference brochures will be mailed to you in December.
And remember to register by January 20 for the early-bird rates!