Religious education conference features speakers, workshops
Event claimed to be 'largest annual catechetical event in the world'

The 39th annual Los Angeles Religious Education Congress, sponsored by the Roman Catholic Church, will be at the Anaheim Convention Center from March 1 to 4.

This four-day Congress for adults and youths is the largest annual catechetical event in the world, according to Congress Coordinator Paulette Smith. The theme is "Stand in the Light."

Cardinal Roger M. Mahony, along with priests and bishops, will welcome the 40,000 delegates from the United States, Canada, Australia, England, Mexico, Central America, Sweden and Ireland.

About 200 speakers and Catholic theologians will give presentations in 274 workshops covering all areas of religious education and catechetical leadership.

Workshop topics include biblical spirituality, adult catechesis, social justice, sacraments and liturgy, and contemporary social, cultural, family and young adult issues.

The Rev. Bryan N. Massingale, STD, will be this year's keynote speaker on Saturday, March 3.

Workshop presenters will be on hand from all over the globe.

Special emphasis will be given to the Spanishspeaking communities, with more than 51 workshops designed specifically for the Hispanic community.

The conference will conclude with Bishop Tod D. Brown, Bishop of Orange, celebrating Mass at 8:15 a.m. and Cardinal Roger Mahony, Archbishop of Los Angeles, at 3:30 p.m. on Sunday, March 4.

For more information or registration, call Paulette Smith at (213) 637-7332 or visit www.RECongress.org.

Handicap facilities are available.