Conference Background

Christ Our Life Catholic Conference is a nonprofit conference being held at Wells Fargo Arena. It is a grassroots effort of faith springing up out of the heart of Iowa and blessed since its founding by Bishop Richard E. Pates and our current Bishop, William Joensen of the Catholic Diocese of Des Moines.

How Did it Come About?
Christ Our Life Catholic Conference was conceived in 2008 and was inspired by the Holy Spirit pulling on the hearts of two women in central Iowa. They prayed, gathered a dedicated and spiritually motivated group of volunteers, and secured world-renowned speakers. The result was a first-of-its kind Catholic conference. Now we are offering a seventh biennial Christ Our Life conference focused on bringing Catholics together, inspiring, celebrating and exploring their faith and bringing souls to Christ.

You Are Invited!
Please join us for a weekend of faith sharing, faith building and praise as we listen and learn from world-class speakers, renowned Catholic exhibitors and most importantly, share the sacraments.

Speakers

Fr. John Riccardo

Fr. Riccardo has a great gift to communicate God’s responses to all our questions. He explains God’s desires for His people and Catholicism in understandable terms. A parish priest in the Archdiocese of Detroit, Fr. Riccardo founded and serves as executive director of Acts XXIX, a ministry that aids pastors and laypersons to invigorate and educate their parishes for mission. He hosts the podcast, “You Were Born for This” and is widely known for his radio program, “Christ Is the Answer.”

Chris Stefanick

Chris' acclaimed educational initiatives are turning the tide in the Church. Chris created the Chosen Confirmation program, which has formed an estimated 500,000 teens. He's Founder & President of "Real Life Catholic," a nonprofit dedicated to re-engaging a generation. "Real Life Catholic" is also the name of his EWTN show, in which he highlights everyday Catholics boldly living their faith. He's been awarded the Papal Benemerenti Medal in honor of his service to the Church. Chris is married and father to six children.

Matt Fradd

Best known as a powerful motivational speaker, author and podcaster who is not afraid to challenge his listeners, Matt addresses current and critical topics in faith and today’s culture. He has authored and co-authored several books, including “The Porn Myth” and “Does God Exist?” Matt’s 2018 straightforward discussion of the plague of porn inspired the longest line for reconciliation in the history of Christ our Life. In his podcast, “Pints with Aquinas,” Matt discusses stimulating topics with varying guests.

Patricia Sandoval

Blatantly honest in sharing her heart-wrenching story of poor choices, abortions and the utter desperation when hitting her lowest point in life, Patricia Sandoval describes the profound love and hope she experienced through the kindness of a Christian stranger. Trusting in God’s love and mercy, Patricia found the courage to transform her life. Now Patricia is a fierce pro-life advocate, proclaiming God’s mercy and the immeasurable worth of every child conceived, as she testifies in her book, “Transfigured.”

Keith Nester

Possessing a great love of Jesus, Keith served as a pastor and youth pastor for over 20 years in the United Methodist Church, the Assemblies of God and the Evangelical Free Church. In 2017, Keith boldly followed the path to which Christ was calling him. He resigned his position and joined the Catholic Church. An accomplished speaker and Executive Director of Down To Earth Ministries, his book, “The Convert’s Guide To Roman Catholicism,” tells of the challenges and joys of the faith Keith now calls his own.

Tim Jameson

Have you ever heard the Father’s voice? Tim Jameson is a dynamic Catholic speaker who teaches how to discern the Father’s voice and engage the Catholic faith in everyday life, not just on Sundays. Tim travels the country to inspire Catholics to live vibrant lives in Christ. He has helped start an anti-pornography ministry, a Catholic radio station and several other initiatives. Relating miracles he has experienced, Tim teaches how all are called to be missionaries using the gifts and talents that God has given each individual.

Magnus MacFarlane-Barrow

Once again, founder and CEO of the global non-profit charity Mary’s Meals, Scotsman Magnus Mac-Farlane-Barrow, returns to provide updates and information about the recent work of Mary’s Meals. This organization is now providing a nutritious meal every day to more than 2.279 million of the world’s poorest children at their place of education. Mary’s Meals has a presence in 20 developing countries, and continues to expand its international presence.

Steve Angrisano

With 50,000 fans on Facebook, musician, singer and story weaver Steve is beloved by audiences throughout the world. He provides the ideal combination of music and storytelling in a sensitive and timely manner, inspiring his audiences to engage in praise and worship with him. Young and old alike are moved to a deeper celebration of their faith. As a committed Catholic, Steve succeeds through his talent and skill to witness his love and devotion to Jesus and Blessed Mother Mary.

Christ Our Life Catholic Conference 2022

For Our Searching Souls