Oklahoma Catholic Men’s Conference

Father Larry Richards broke into writing with his 2009 book Be a Man! Becoming The Man God Created You To Be. Richards’ message, ongoing still, comes to Norman for the 23rd annual In the Father’s Footsteps Oklahoma Catholic Men’s Conference.

The event, titled  - , is set for March 9, from 8:45 a.m. to 4:30 p.m., at the Embassy Suites Conference Center and Hotel, 2501 Conference Dr. in Norman.

Richards, a noted speaker, preacher, retreat master and author, as well as the pastor of St. Joseph Church/Bread of Life Community in Erie, Pa., is among four featured speakers highlighting a day of faith, renewal and evangelization.

He will be joined by Catholic author and speaker Jason Evert, Father Roger Landry of Fall River, Mass., and popular Catholic radio host Jon Leonetti. The conference will also feature Steve Angrisano, a Catholic musician and composer offering his worship and praise talents.

“Our conference day will begin with a powerful examination of the lives we live – our challenges, temptations and obstacles,” said Ray Haefele, conference director. “We'll gain insights and tools throughout the day and move toward a clear vision of how to claim the lives we're called to live; lives forged by the way and the truth, built upon bedrock values and placed in service to God, family and faith.”

Evert will open the conference with a message entitled “Porn Detox.” Richards will follow with his talk, “Knowing God’s Mercy.” Following lunch, Leonetti will present his talk, “Back to the Basics – A 3-Step Action Plan to become a Saint.” Fr. Landry will close with his talk, “Coming to the Father by Faithfully following Jesus the Way, Believing Jesus the Truth, and Receiving from Him the Life He’s Received from the Father.”

There are also opportunities for the sacrament of reconciliation and to attend mass at the end of the conference, led by the Most Rev. Paul S. Coakley, archbishop of the Archdiocese of Oklahoma City.

The cost of the conference is $59 if submitted by Feb. 11, $69 thereafter, and includes breakfast, lunch, beverages and afternoon snacks. There are discounts for younger attendees: $29 for high school students, $39 for college students.

Tickets are available at www.catholicmen.net.