October 14, 2009

Gospel of Life Conference to feature ways to strengthen families

By Julie Filby

Parents in modern Christian families face many challenges—balancing work and home life, the influx of electronic media, isolation of the nuclear family, and a wider culture that is hostile to faith.

“What does a Christian Catholic family look like today?” is one of three keynote presentations slated for the eighth annual Gospel of Life Conference.

“A Christian family today looks very much like it has always looked,” said keynote speaker Jonathan Reyes, Ph.D., president and chief executive officer of Catholic Charities. “Only today, having a Christian family requires more conscious effort than in the past due to new challenges.”

Reyes explained the goal of Christian family life is, first and foremost, to raise children for eternal life.

“This does not need be a hyper-spiritual approach,” he said. “It just means that all regular activities of family life—from eating to education to leisure activities to conversation—should have the goal of developing the children’s character and spiritual life.”

Reyes’ talk will offer practical advice to keep both children and parents centered on Christ, such as limiting activities and television, committing to family meal times and reading the lives of the saints.

“The modern Christian family has to make active decisions to counter (bad) influences—they need to rearrange their time, embrace simplicity and pursue meaningful relationships,” he said. “This takes real discipline.”

Reyes assumed the duties of president and chief executive officer of Catholic Charities in June. Prior to that, he was the founding president and an instructor at the Augustine Institute, a graduate program devoted to Catholic theological studies and leadership training. He holds degrees from the University of Michigan and the University of Notre Dame. Reyes also served as vice president for campus ministry and formation for the Fellowship of Catholic University Students at Christendom College where he served as vice president for academic affairs. Originally from Michigan, Reyes and his wife of 14 years have six children, ranging from age 2 to 12.

Additional speakers at this year’s conference themed “Strengthening the family: Hope for the future,” are Father Jorge Rodriguez, vice rector and professor of sacred theology at St. John Vianney Theological Seminary; and Helen Alvaré, associate professor of law at George Mason University.

In his talk, “What does God want from a family today?” Father Rodriguez will speak on how the true nature of God’s love, mercy and beauty can be fully reflected in the vision of a holy family.

In “A global perspective on the family,” Alvaré will explain Catholic social teaching on marriage and family, and discuss global threats to the family that undermine the idea of the universal human family.
In addition to the keynote talks, the conference will include Mass celebrated by Archbishop Charles J. Chaput, O.F.M. Cap., and concelebrated by Auxiliary Bishop James Conley, opening remarks by Archbishop Chaput, meals and a panel discussion.

The conference is set for 8 a.m.-2:30 p.m. on Oct. 24 at Christ the King Parish, 830 Elm St. in Denver. Everyone is invited. Talks will be translated into Spanish for Spanish speakers. Conference cost is $20. To register, contact the Respect Life Office at 303-715-3205 or e-mail resplife@archden.org by Oct. 22. Visit www.archden.org for more information.