On Friday July 13 and Saturday July 14, 2007 LOTWEM held its first-ever National Conference. Saint Elizabeth Ann Seaton Catholic Parish in Crystal Lake, IL graciously hosted the conference, which was attended by members of the LOTWEM family from 23 parishes in seven states. The conference was bilingual, with both English and Spanish family members in attendance. 

Throughout the weekend, the approximately 200 attendees were graced with and inspired by Spirit-filled (and spirited) words of key-note speaker Fr. Tom Forrest. Fr. Tom’s awesome talks on evangelization addressed both why we are to evangelize and how we are to evangelize. Pointing to Christ as our goal and model for evangelization and the Holy Spirit as our constant helper, Fr. Tom’s words resonated with love and a youthful enthusiasm (despite his turning 80 years old the week following the conference). In sharing his remarkable personal stories, Fr. Tom spoke not as “one who says but does not do,” but as a “fellow soldier for Christ.” 

In addition to Fr. Tom, the conference attendees heard from Henry Cappello. Henry shared the inspiring story of his life-long commitment to bringing the Gospel to countries where it is not freely and openly proclaimed. Henry spoke of his current evangelization efforts in China and the work the Holy Spirit is performing in that country. 

Those attending the conference were able to attend break-out sessions addressing various topics regarding forwarding the evangelistic work of the LOTW process. The Spanish speakers included Hector Vitela, Luis Patino, Socorro Salazar, Abel Rojas and Magdalena Rojas. The English speakers included Carolyn May and JoEllen Gregus. The attendees were also able to attend a talk by Mike Pacer regarding the evangelistic writings of John Paul “the Great.” 

Songs of praise and worship permeated the weekend. The conference was blessed with the inspiring music of Paula Sentovic. Joining Paula in praising God through song were Abel Rojas, Mary Vogrinc, Mary George and many beautiful voices from St. Rita of Cassia (Aurora, IL) and Saint Elizabet Ann Seaton (Crystal Lake, IL). 

The weekend culminated in a bilingual mass on Saturday evening. The principal celebrant was Msgr. Robert Willhite (St. Rita of Cassia, Aurora, IL) and the sermon was given by Fr. Tom Forrest. Concelebrants also included Msgr. Daniel Hermes (LOTWEM Supervising Director), Fr. Julius Tverdy (Cristo Rey, Lincoln, NE), Fr. Thomas Lux (All Saints, Holdrege NE), Fr. Thomas Au (Sacred Heart, Roseland NE); and Fr. Thomas McGuire (St. Catherine, Indianola NE).