Our lovely editor over here at the CatholicMatch Institute asked me to share my thoughts on the National Catholic Singles Conference ... and I put it off (sorry, Robyn!). And then just last week, I received an email about the 2015 NCSC. So here are some of my impressions about the past two conferences (Philly and San Diego) and what you can expect at the next one (Atlanta).
I can't lie. I was guilted into attending the 2013 NCSC in Philadelphia. It's an easy drive for me, Robyn had to work, and our mutual friend didn't want to go alone. I couldn't imagine anything worse.
A singles conference? Am I really that desperate? Who on earth is going to show up to a SINGLES conference? I don't even think I told my sister where I was going. We had a lot of laughs on the way in, but starting with the very first talk with Fr. Thomas Loya—I was hooked. The speakers that year were dynamic and thought-provoking. I hadn't taken notes like that since college! I met friendly people from all over the country, and it was a relief for me to see so many like-minded Catholics, traveling the same road as me.
When the 2014 NCSC came around and the destination was San Diego, there was no question about skipping it. A group of us flew west a few days before the conference to see the sights and bask in the perfect weather. Once again, the speakers were engaging and informative. The Masses were inspiring. Friday's fish tacos were fantastic ...
The biggest difference for me was that I wasn't just an attendee.
Instead of sitting and writing (furiously) at all the talks, I was involved in the set-up, break-down, and staffing of the CatholicMatch Institute booth. I may have missed some of the finer points in the talks, but staying in the back of the room for the entire conference allowed me to meet far more people than the previous year.
Instead of feeling somewhat isolated and awkward (I HATE icebreakers), I was constantly busy. (Did any of you attend NCSC 2014 and take pictures with the Popes? You have no idea how difficult those were to assemble) I was setting up the tables, answering general questions, and chatting with fellow Catholics. A few people even approached the booth because they had read my blogs!
Not only did I learn about issues that so many single Catholics share, but I was able to exchange ideas and encourage others. I came away feeling stronger in my Faith and excited about the next event.
This year, the National Catholic Singles Conference will be held October 23-25, 2015 in Atlanta, Georgia. If you are interested in learning more about your Faith, meeting new friends, and feeling more fulfilled in your current state in life, you must come!
You will come away with concrete, practical advice to help live your daily life—and you won't feel alone.
So join me in Atlanta. I can't wait to meet you at the NCSC 2015!
