By Madalaine Elhabbal
Washington, D.C. Newsroom, Jan 28, 2025 / 08:00 am
Are you ready for a unique cultural experience right in the heart of New York City? Catholics from the U.S. and beyond are gearing up to attend a one-of-a-kind cultural conference dedicated to education, dialogue, and friendship.
Organized annually by members of Communion and Liberation, a movement founded by the Italian priest Father Luigi Giussani, the event will take place from Feb. 14–16 at the Metropolitan Pavilion, 125 West 18th St., New York City. Livestreams of several presentations will be available, and best of all, no registration is required!
“There’s nothing quite like it,” says Holly Peterson, one of the New York Encounter’s organizers. “It’s a high-level event that’s completely free, which is rare to find.”
The New York Encounter offers a diverse program of events including panel discussions, artistic performances, and exhibits that delve into topics not typically covered at ordinary Catholic gatherings.
For instance, this year’s exhibits will explore themes such as “flawed relationships to reality and the past” using the HBO series “Succession” as a lens, and the story of Vietnamese Americans 50 years post-Vietnam War.
Presentations will cover a range of topics from an analysis of the wonders of a peacock’s tail to discussions on immigration, stories of hope in the Holy Land, and education in the U.S.
According to Peterson, the New York Encounter is an event that truly has the power to transform individuals. It’s an experience like no other, offering a fresh perspective on a variety of important issues.
Welcome to a new adventure where life-changing encounters await! As we eagerly anticipate the transformation that awaits us, we are excited to immerse ourselves in a journey of self-discovery and growth.
This year’s event promises to delve into the intricacies of repairing our relationship with the past. Drawing inspiration from the profound words of Italian poet Dante Alighieri, the theme “Here Begins a New Life” beckons us to embrace the healing power of great love.
The organizers have passionately expressed their vision for this year’s gathering, emphasizing the importance of reconnecting with our roots in a world that often feels disconnected and isolated. The encounter with extraordinary presences and profound experiences is poised to redefine our understanding of past, present, and future.
Renowned speaker, Peterson, shared her insights on the significance of history in shaping our identities. She highlighted the impact of ignorance on our personal narratives, emphasizing the importance of reclaiming our stories.
As part of a dedicated team, Peterson and her colleagues are committed to curating an enriching experience that transcends boundaries and explores diverse facets of reality. From discussions on politics to reflections on art and science, every aspect of our existence is up for exploration.
Join us on this incredible journey as we navigate through the complexities of our world, seeking out the goodness that lies within and propelling it into the light. Together, let’s embark on a quest for truth, connection, and personal growth.
