September 18, 2003

NEWS RELEASE
FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE
For More Information, Contact:
Bud Bunce (503) 233-8373
bbunce@archdpdx.org

Annual Catechetical Conference to be held October 18th

        The Archdiocese of Portland Office of Religious Education has announced the
annual Catechetical Conference will be held on Saturday, October 18, at La Salle High
School in Milwaukie. Tom Tomaszek will be the Keynote speaker for the English
language track and Rudy Finke will be the Keynote speaker for the Spanish language
track. The theme for this year's conference is "Sow, Reap, Celebrate."

        The Conference will begin with Morning Prayer at 8:45 a.m. In addition to the
Keynote address, there will be three workshop sessions and a closing prayer service.
Workshops will include the topics of young adult ministry, spirituality, family and
catechesis, youth ministry, creative ideas for children's programs, tips for preschool
catechists and sessions for personal and professional enrichment.

        Tom Tomaszek is an educator, composer, liturgical musician, author and youth
advocate. He currently serves as Conference Coordinator for Oregon Catholic Press,
where he draws upon twenty-five years of experience as he helps dioceses and
organizations better integrate all ages and cultures into worship.

        Rudy Finke was born in Germany. He has lived in Argentina, Paraguay, and
Mexico. In 1984 he came to the United States. He works with children, adolescents
and adults in the areas of theology, religious education and sociology.

        The cost of the conference is $25, which includes hospitality and registration.
Participants may bring their own lunch, or order a boxed lunch (sandwich, salad, chips,
desert and beverage) for $7.00.

        Childcare is available for $10 per child or $25 for a family of three or more. A
"conference" lunch for a child is available for an additional $3, or the parent may bring
the child's lunch.

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