More than 450 men experience inspiring talks, moments of reflection, opportunity to meet, pray with Archbishop Weisenburger
Editor's note: This article first appeared in Detroit Catholic en Español, the Spanish-language sister publication of Detroit Catholic.
DETROIT — Approximately 450 men gathered March 29 at Sacred Heart Major Seminary in Detroit for the 16th Hispanic Men’s Conference, and event that included a full day of reflection, learning, and prayer and culminating in a Mass celebrated by Auxiliary Bishop Arturo Cepeda alongside newly installed Detroit Archbishop Edward J. Weisenburger, whose presence was welcomed with warmth and hope from members of the Hispanic community.
The event featured inspiring talks, moments of praise, a procession and holy hour, and the opportunity to receive the sacrament of reconciliation. Various ministries collaborated to make the conference a profound experience and a testament to unity.
“The teamwork was incredible,” Fr. Pedro Núñez told Detroit Catholic en Español. “It’s beautiful to see these ministries come together for a common goal, and that was key to the event’s success.”
Fr. Núñez, a priest of the Archdiocese of New Orleans and a popular international speaker, gave two talks, sharing his experiences and profound testimony of faith. The 77-year-old priest, who has been in ministry for 47 years, expressed his gratitude for the opportunity to serve at events like this, where evangelization is tailored to meet the needs of men.
“This event was excellent in every way,” Fr. Núñez said. “The approach to evangelization was well adapted to what men needed. Plus, the hospitality was wonderful — everyone felt at home, and that’s very important.”
The conference stood out not only for its impeccable organization, but also for the powerful messages delivered throughout the day.
“Seeing the church filled with men at Mass brought me great joy because, sometimes, men can be a bit more reluctant than women to draw closer to God,” he added. “Many left with a desire for a radical change in their lives, especially in their marriages and family relationships.”
A man’s identity in Christ
One of the highlights of the conference was the opening talk by Fr. John Robinson, SOLT, of Holy Redeemer Parish in Detroit, who addressed three key themes: identity, journey, and destiny.
He emphasized that the identity crisis in modern society is one of the main reasons many men feel lost and without purpose.
“Every human being is created by God in His image and likeness,” Fr. Robinson reminded them, stressing that a man’s true identity is found in his relationship with the Lord.
Fr. Robinson also spoke about the “four dragons” that can ensnare a man’s heart: power, honor, money and pleasure.
“Following God’s path and responding to the vocation we are called to often requires a change in life, which can be difficult and even painful,” he said, inviting attendees to trust in the guidance of the Blessed Virgin Mary throughout this journey.
Next, Fr. Núñez delivered two deeply moving talks. In the first, titled "Beloved Sons of the Father," he reflected on the importance of recognizing God’s unconditional love for every person. Quoting St. Augustine, he said, “God created us without our consent, but He cannot save us without it.”
He explained that there are two paths in life: God’s path or the world’s path. Each person must ask themselves which path they are on and how they are filling the emptiness in their heart — whether with the world’s fleeting promises, which lead only to disappointment, or with God’s infinite love, which transforms and gives life.
Finally, he invited the men to reflect on how they are responding to God’s call and what example of Christian living they are leaving for their children.
In his second talk, "Healed to Heal," Fr. Núñez emphasized the importance of holiness and personal healing. He spoke about how resentment and past wounds can distance people from God’s grace and their true calling.
He also encouraged perseverance and courage to start anew.
“Don’t give up — your perseverance will lead you to a deeper holiness. Let Jesus heal you, let him transform you. Start receiving the sacraments more frequently. Make a good confession and begin walking the path of victory,” he urged.
For Ricardo Hernández, a member of the “Jornadas” ministry, the conference was a unique opportunity for spiritual renewal and fellowship.
“It was a success. In previous years, we didn’t have this many people," Hernández said. "There were fathers, sons, and many first-time attendees. It was an event that touched many hearts. And having Archbishop Weisenburger among us was an unexpected blessing. Seeing him there was a surprise for me. His presence showed us that he is committed to the Hispanic community and that we can count on his support.”
An invitation to grow in faith
The final message of the conference was clear: God continues to call men to be a light in their homes and communities.
During the closing Mass, Bishop Cepeda reminded the faithful of God’s goodness and the opportunity to renew their faith. Reflecting on the Parable of the Prodigal Son, he highlighted the Father’s mercy — always ready to welcome and restore His children with love, even when they stray.
He encouraged those present to ask themselves how they are responding to God’s mercy and to recognize their own struggles within their families and communities. With joy, he urged them to return home as living witnesses of their faith so that their transformation would be evident to those around them.
For some, the conference was an awakening from lukewarm faith; for others, it was a confirmation that they are not alone in their journey to live an authentic Christian life. And for all, it was a reminder that despite failures and challenges, it is always possible to rise again.
“God has His plans, but if even one person among all the participants experiences conversion, for us, it will have been worth it,” said Antonio Camino, the current treasurer of the Hispanic Men’s Conference.
And judging by the radiant faces of those who left, the fruits of this gathering are just beginning to bloom.
