Giving men the tools to battle evil and lead virtuous lives

Local men are being asked to take their faith to the next level.

“Now more than ever before, Canada needs strong men of faith who courageously seek to live pure and holy lives that witness to God’s love and mercy,” said Archbishop J. Michael Miller ahead of a men’s conference coming this June 15.

“None of us can do this on our own strength.”

The Man’s Destiny 2024 conference will occur Saturday, June 15, at St. Matthew’s Parish in Surrey. The event aims to educate men about the value of Catholicism and how to combat the evils that are so corrosive in modern society. Ultimately, it seeks to help participants lead more virtuous lives is sponsored by Knights of Columbus Council 9534.

Archbishop Miller endorsed the conference, calling it a “rare and blessed opportunity to slow down and consider the friendship Jesus is offering each and every one of us.”

“When we give the Lord first place in our hearts, then, through the Holy Spirit, he provides us with everything we need to overcome the obstacles placed in our way by the enemy, and helps us lead lives that are truly pleasing to God.”

This year’s speaker, Keith Nester, has over 20 years of experience in various pastoral and youth pastoral roles in United Methodist, Assemblies of God, and Evangelical Free churches. In 2017, following a 20-year discernment process, Nester resigned from full-time ministry in the United Church and joined the Catholic Church.

An exciting and dynamic speaker, Nester continues to use his preaching gifts to speak to audiences about faith, theology, and his journey to Catholicism.

The conference runs from 8:30 a.m. to 3:45 p.m. June 15. Tickets are $60 per person plus a service fee. The day includes a light breakfast, full lunch, coffee, and snacks. Tickets can be found on Eventbrite under “Making Sense of the Chaos” or by calling St. Matthew’s Parish office at 604-589-8448. Tickets sold out last year.

This day of men celebrating with men will highlight the remarkable treasures available to lifelong Catholics and converts in the Catholic Church. Nester’s testimony of giving up his job and financial security to follow God’s calling encourages us not to take our faith for granted. His talks are engaging, honest, and moving, and they have the power to change how we experience our faith.

For more information, contact the writer at [email protected].

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