Join us for a rejuvenating and inspiring weekend retreat at the USML Conference Center in Mundelein, IL (also home to Mundelein Seminary of the Archdiocese of Chicago)! The presenters for the weekend will draw both from brain science and John Paul II’s Theology of the Body to offer tools and insights for building healthy relationships with ourself, God and others. As with other NCSC organized events, there will be various pre/post events in order to visit more with fellow attendees and see the Chicago area!
Come explore questions such as:
Fr. Thomas J. Loya, STB, MA is currently the pastor of Annunciation of the Mother of God Byzantine Catholic Church in Homer Glen, IL. He is the host of, “Light of the East Radio” heard on EWTN Radio affiliates, Ave Maria Radio and www.byzantinecatholic.com. Fr. Loya can also be heard as a guest speaker on Dr. Greg & Lisa Popcak’s radio program, “More 2 Life” as well as “The Leo Brown Almost Hour,” heard on Bread Box Media. Fr. Loya is a member of the Tabor Life Institute for the education and formation in The Theology of the Body and is a regular contributor to several newspapers including Homer Glen’s The Horizon and the Eastern Catholic publication Theosis.
Before entering the seminary Fr. Loya earned a degree from the Cleveland Institute of Art and pursued a career in commercial art and design. He later completed his studies for the priesthood in both Pennsylvania and Rome, where he attended the North American College, earning an STB from the Angelicum University. During his time in Rome, Fr. Loya was first exposed to St. John Paul II’s monumental teaching on the human person when he attended his weekly audiences about the Theology of the Body. Fr. Loya was ordained in 1982 and later added to his Bachelor of Fine Arts by earning a Masters in Counseling and Human Services in 1993. Fr. Loya has served the Church in youth and young adult ministry as well as as an artist and design consultant. He has directed many retreats and has been a guest speaker at numerous conferences around the world, including World Youth Day in 2002. Using his background in art, counseling, and Eastern Catholic spirituality, Fr. Loya brings the principles of the Theology of the Body deep into the lived experience of every aspect of human sexuality.
Jim Martini served for 5 years as CEO of Life Model Works, a ministry with the vision that everyone who encounters the Church is transformed into the image of Christ. Life Model Works’ chief contribution to transformation is an understanding of how God designed our brains and His plans for our maturity in Christ.
Jim is currently co-founder along with his son, Mario, of Martini Development. Together they help people who are heads down growing their business or career, who want exposure to real estate, but don’t have the time or experience to do the kind of research it takes to find the best opportunities.
His experience spans solo entrepreneur, partnership and representing a $60 Billion Company. He served for 8 years as the National Account Manager on the Kaiser Permanente account for Siemens Enterprise Networks.
Jim and his bride of 36 years, Michele, have 2 children. Mario served in campus ministry at USC. Luisa holds a Master’s Degree in Theology and Catachetics from Franciscan University, Steubenville. She has retired from campus ministry and parish work to fulfil her vocation as a wife and mother. Our first grandchild is named after Blessed Giorgio Frassati. Jim and Michele enjoy the beauty of nature, sailing, skiing and watching dolphins from their motorhome.
We are excited that Kay will be coming all the way from Canada to be with us and enrich our retreat weekend with her musical gift! Check out her website and Facebook page to hear some of her music and encounter her mission. She’s all about uplifting culture through beauty and art!