The 2024 Good News Conference stood as a beacon of hope and renewal, drawing hundreds to its profound exploration of faith, mercy, and joy. Hosted in an atmosphere rich with spiritual and intellectual engagement, this year’s event was marked by impactful keynote speeches, intimate breakout sessions, and unique special exhibits. Here’s a glimpse into the moments that defined this transformative weekend.
Special Exhibits: A Space for Reflection and Prayer
One of the highlights of the conference was the Hallow Prayer Room, a dedicated space for attendees seeking personal reflection or communal prayer. Sponsored by the Hallow app, this room offered a sanctuary equipped with guided meditations, Bible stories, and serene music. It provided a respite from the bustling schedule, allowing participants to connect deeply with their faith in a tranquil setting.
The Museum of the Bible also invited guests to behold a rare and illuminated "Pocket Bible" that was created in 1250. Exceptionally beautiful and in excellent condition, the Pocket Bible holds a fascinating history, produced for a student or professor at the University of Paris around the time that St. Thomas Aquinas began teaching there. Dr. Brian Hyland, Senior Curator at the museum, hosted a breakout session that highlighted a selection of beautifully decorated pages. The session explored the Book of Wisdom, specifically Wisdom 11:21- 12:11 that emphasizes the theme of God's mercy.
Book Signings: Engaging with Influential Voices
The conference was graced by prominent authors who offered their insights and signed copies of their books. Rachel Bullman was on hand to sign her highly acclaimed book, “Becoming Wife: Saying Yes to More Than the Dress.” Her book delves into the profound calling of being a devoted wife, exploring the spiritual and personal dimensions of this vocation.
Chris Stefanick, known for his dynamic approach to faith, signed copies of “Living Joy: 9 Rules to Help Rediscover and Live Joy Every Day.” His book provides readers with practical tools to navigate daily challenges and cultivate lasting joy.
Sally Read, whose writings on her conversion from atheism to Catholicism have resonated with many, signed several of her impactful works, engaging in meaningful conversations with attendees about her journey of faith.
Keynote Speakers: Voices of Inspiration and Insight
The conference commenced with an inspiring keynote from Monsignor James Patrick Shea, who gave a talk titled “Have Mercy on the Sins of My Youth.” His address set the tone for the weekend, emphasizing the theme of mercy that would permeate the conference.
Friday evening saw Bishop Robert Barron, the founder of Word on Fire and a leading voice in contemporary Catholic discourse, deliver a unifying keynote. His address, delivered in the Nicollet Ballroom, underscored his reputation as one of the Church’s most influential communicators, bringing a message of faith and unity to the heart of the gathering.
Saturday’s agenda was equally compelling. Arthur C. Brooks, renowned author and “happiness expert,” shared his insights in a talk titled “The Secrets of Subversive Catholicism.” Brooks’s presentation explored how Catholic values can offer profound solutions to contemporary issues of happiness and fulfillment.
Following Brooks, Neal McDonough, acclaimed actor and devout Catholic, participated in a live interview. Known for his roles in Band of Brothers and Minority Report, McDonough spoke candidly about his faith journey and the role of spirituality in his life and career.
Tammy Peterson then took the stage to deliver a moving talk, “My Testimony,” recounting her battle with a rare form of kidney cancer and her subsequent conversion to Catholicism. Her testimony was a powerful reminder of the transformative power of faith during times of profound personal struggle. The day concluded with Fr. Mike Schmitz, the director of Youth and Ministry for the Diocese of Duluth and host of “Bible in a Year,” offering reflections on living a faith-filled life.
Sunday welcomed presenters Sister Miriam James Heidland, Katie Shaw, Sally Read, Dr. Barbara Jatta, and Christ Stefanick. Each talk continued the weekend's theme of mercy and living in God's image. Sister Miriam James Heidland spoke about the healing power of mercy and the impact it has had on her journey in the church. Katie Shaw, a pro-life activist and renowned public speaker, presented "God's Mercy in My Wonderful Life," where she touched on disability awareness and her relationship with Christ.
Following Katie, Dr. Barbara Jetta, the Director of the Vatican Museums, tied her love of history with worship on the main stage. Sally Read also chose to detail her growth as a believer with her talk, "How God's Merciful Gaze Found the Heart of an Atheist," and Chris Stefanick closed out the weekend with his presentation on "Living the Joy of the Gospel."
Breakout Sessions: Deepening Understanding and Personal Growth
In addition to the keynote presentations, the conference featured a variety of breakout sessions designed for more focused explorations of the key theme.
Rachel and Jason Bulman led a session on “Fully Alive: Transforming the Way You See the World,” inviting attendees to rethink their perspectives and embrace a more vibrant and faith-filled outlook on life. Brian Hyland, senior curator at the Museum of the Bible, presented “Exquisite Bible Treasure Exemplifies the Transformative Power of the Bible,” offering a deep dive into the historical and spiritual significance of the sacred text.
Shannon Wendt, creator of Chews Life, facilitated a session on “Where is Mercy in Hard Times?” focusing on recognizing and embracing mercy in challenging times. Her session provided practical tools for finding peace and redemption amidst trials. Ester Munt-Brooks, a well-regarded Catholic educator, led a breakout on “Moving from Resentment to Forgiveness,” guiding participants through the transformative process of forgiveness and healing.
The 2024 Good News Conference was a testament to the power of faith, community, and personal transformation. Through its diverse offerings, it provided attendees with a rich tapestry of spiritual nourishment and practical guidance, leaving an indelible impact on all who participated.