Insightful speakers to address annual CCSTA conference

The CCSTA convention and annual general meeting is only two months away and the association is gearing up for a landmark event.

Being hosted by St. Bonaventure’s College in Newfoundland and Labrador, it is set to inspire with insightful speakers from a variety of backgrounds. Each brings a unique perspective to Catholic education and Catholicism, guiding participants through thought-provoking sessions.

These speakers will share their experiences with delegates attending the CCSTA convention from June 11 to 13, in St. John’s, NL. This year’s theme reflects the heart of the province and the challenges facing Catholic education throughout the country. The theme, Launch forth into the deep/Avancez au large et jetez vos filets, stems from moments in the gospel (Luke 5:1-11; John 21: 4-8) when Jesus invites Peter and his fellow fishers to cast their nets in trust despite all the indications that little or nothing was to be had.

Two keynote speakers will relay their expert thoughts throughout the weekend on moving forward with the new evangelization. Bishop Brian Dunn, who presides over the Diocese of Antigonish in Nova Scotia, is set to reflect on his personal experience with the new evangelization in Rome and closer to home. Father Matt Malone is an editor of the Catholic magazine, America, and is looking forward to bringing his trademark fresh perspective to a talk about modern day media and how Pope Francis I is affecting the media, Catholics and society.

John Stunt, executive director for CCSTA, said that the speakers’ reflections, both professional and personal, will give conference attendees greater insight into a variety of topics, from learning more about the determination surrounding Catholic education in Newfoundland, to attracting youth to be an integral part of Catholic education while encouraging wise choices.

“Hearing from keynote speakers and theme presenters validates experiences, is confidence-inspiring and powerfully encourages people to add their own voices to advocating for Catholic education,” he said.

In addition to the keynote speakers, several theme presenters will also share their knowledge on topics that will heighten awareness of key issues with delegates. Michel Genest will provide a look at the presence of the French in the history of the province, while Michael Bautista will reflect on the loss of the province’s Catholic schools in the late 1990s and how parents initiated opening St. Bonaventure’s College.

Sister Loretta Walsh is presenting a teen character-based media resource program called Makeyouthink, for teachers and youth leaders.  The program focuses on issues that matter most to contemporary youth while improving inner character to enable wise choices in tough situations. Lastly, Sister Mary Tee, will provide a world-view of ecology and how that can be witnessed in practical terms by school initiatives.

To learn more about the 2015 CCSTA conference keynote speakers and theme presenters, please visit the CCSTA AGM website.