Dynamic Women of Faith Conference 2016
The Dynamic Women of Faith Conference, held this weekend (3/19/16), at the John Paul II Polish Cultural Centre was, well DYNAMIC! With speakers such as Donna-Marie Cooper O’Boyle, Anne Jamieson, Deacon Doug McManaman, Dorothy Pilarski and, my personal favorite, Sister Maria Kateri, how could it be anything less?
Sister Maria Kateri
Lunch was wonderful! Those at our table were raving about the salad, tender chicken and the best potatoes we had ever had. The company was delightful and my heart leapt with joy to see so many young moms with babies in tow.
Of course, as a regular blogger for the site you might think I am a little biased, so I thought I’d share with you what women I interviewed said about the day. Megan Mott, mom of two young children told me, “I nourish my children everyday, this conference is spiritual nourishment for myself.” Another young mom, Karen, told me that her attendance was her birthday and Christmas present to herself all wrapped up in one. “This is my first day away from my children in three years,” she explained. Ironically, she spent most of the conference surrounded by the adorable little ones her friends had brought with them. Mom’s can’t help mothering, even on their days off.
Donna-Marie Cooper O’Boyle
Two sisters, Liza and Nellie, told me that some women had come along with just because they had taken time to invite them. In fact, the one sister had come to the conference because the other sister had gone so far as to call her sister’s work to get her time off to come! That is love, ladies.
My table-mates, Cathy and Nicole, shared with me information on the women’s group that they are a part of, and how a friend from that group had introduced them to the conference. They told me all about a Scripture Study that they participate in and how it has impacted their own lives. I enjoyed hearing about their families and their faith.
My favorite part of the day was sharing it with my daughter, Katya, and my close friend, Emily. We enjoyed the long journey to the conference, the friends we made there and the inspiration we received. Sister Marie’s explanation of how to use the ‘Examen’ was probably my favorite talk. I struggle to find new ways to deepen my prayer life and this was something I had not really experienced before. I look forward to implementing it into my daily spiritual journey of prayer.
Anne Jamieson
Anne Jamieson taught us wonderful lessons in finding joy, while making me laugh out loud. Donna-Marie is always a delight, and I have her new book, The Kiss of Jesus, on order. Deacon Doug’s line (for attendees to purchase his new book on forgiveness) was never-ending following his discussion on the Logic of Anger.
Deacon Doug McManaman
Dorothy shared about starting mother’s groups and all in all it was an informative, special day. Dorothy and her team of volunteers did an amazing job putting the whole thing together. I felt blessed to be a part of it. God bless and please consider joining us for the conference next year!!!
Mary Lou Rosien BSW, MA is the RCIA Coordinator at St. Leo Church in Hilton, New York. She is the author of Managing Stress with the Help of Your Catholic Faith (OSV) and Catholic Family Boot Camp (Bezalel Books). Mary Lou is also a columnist with Catholicmom.com, and AmazingCatechists.com
