Mark Your Calendars: #TOBtalk 2016 Theology of the Body Congress

During the Spring months, we had a great conversation here at the blog employing the #TOBTalk theme to discuss Theology of the Body and its place in our hearts and our homes (see archives here). This dialogue was all in anticipation of a special upcoming event, the 2016 Theology of the Body Congress. I'm happy to share that I will be in attendance and would love to meet you there as well. With an outstanding slate of speakers, a Spanish language track, and workshops that cover all aspects of this critical topic, this promises to be a wonderful experience for anyone interested in family life and relationships.

[Tweet "#TOBcongress to focus on mercy and the family"]

From the events organizers, a terrific overview of what to expect at Congress:

PHILADELPHIA, PA – Inspired by the Jubilee Year of Mercy and last year’s Synod on the Family, the 2016 Theology of the Body Congress – an expansive gathering of experts, Church leaders and laity – will focus on how Theology of the Body and mercy play a vital role in how we live out family life.

“We live in a time of unprecedented confusion on gender, marriage, and family life,” said Jen Settle, Managing Director of the Theology of the Body Institute. “In a time such as this, it is important for all of us, whether married, single, celibate, or those working within parishes or schools, to come to know the beauty of human love through Pope Saint John Paul II’s Theology of the Body.”

The 2016 International Theology of the Body Congress: Love, Mercy and the Gift of the Family is set for September 22-25 in Ontario, California at the Ontario Convention Center. This will be the third Congress sponsored by the Theology of the Body Institute, but the first to visit the West Coast.

“We hope that our presence will infuse the area with an enthusiasm for Theology of the Body, and we are thankful to Most Reverend Gerald R. Barnes for his warm welcome to the Diocese of San Bernardino,” said Settle.

The Congress features a prime line-up of speakers, most notably Archbishop Jose Gomez of Los Angeles, Dr. John Grabowski of Catholic University of America and Msgr. J. Brian Bransfield, associate general secretary of the United States Conference of Catholic Bishops.

“Theology of the Body Institute is honored to have Archbishop Jose Gomez giving the keynote address,” said Damon Owens, Chairman of the TOB Congress Planning Committee. “Through the expertise of our speakers, those attending will encounter God’s plan for fruitful, self-giving, merciful love which lies at the very heart of what the family is meant to be.”

The Congress will also feature presentations from Christopher West, Dr. Edward Sri, Sr. Regina Marie Gorman, Jason Evert, Matt Fradd, and many more.

In addition to the seminars and panels from top Theology of the Body experts, the Congress will feature daily Mass, Reconciliation and Eucharistic Adoration, as well as an exhibit hall with wide array of products, programs and ministries related to Theology of the Body and Evangelization.

The Theology of the Body Congress hopes to reach clergy, religious and lay leaders involved in the New Evangelization at all levels in the Church. From diocesan leadership, priests, religious and seminarians to married couples, single people and Theology of the Body enthusiasts, the 2016 Theology of the Body Congress will be a meeting ground for all those interested in reaching a culture that has forgotten the true meaning of the body and therefore, the family.

“The Congress has been, and will continue to be a place of refreshment for those trying to advance the Church’s vision for the family,” Owens said, noting that the Congress’s powerful blend of expert knowledge, networking and idea sharing has led to flourishing ministries and a greater understanding of John Paul II’s vision of life for every person.

Learn more about the Theology of the Body Congress and make your plans now to attend.