For me the University of Dallas Ministry Conference has become a wonderful fall tradition and celebration of being Church. It is a time of fellowship, of growth, of worship and entertainment. It is a coming together of the Church of North Texas and beyond. It is truly an experience of walking in faith together.

An impressive array of speakers of national and international note has been assembled by the UD School of Ministry for the conference on Friday and Saturday, October 26-27. There will be tracks for Catholic School teachers, youth ministers, catechists, parish catechetical leaders and marriage ministers who wish to grow in their ministerial skills and knowledge.

But the conference is also for all who wish to grow in their faith, with workshops in scripture, spirituality, marriage and family life and the social teachings of our Church. Sessions will be offered in English, Spanish and Vietnamese.

In addition to the sessions, the exhibits offer a chance to see new techniques and programs that are available for parishes and schools and see the new offerings from the best Catholic publishers. There will also be liturgical art displays and musical performances.

This year the conference will be held in a new venue, the Irving Convention Center, with a direct connection to the DART Orange Line.

I urge all Catholics to take advantage of this opportunity to grow in faith, understanding and ministerial skills. I invite you to visit ministryconference@udallas.edu or phone 972-721-5105 or 972-265-5811 for more information. Perhaps it will become your new fall tradition, too.