Keynote Speaker: Emily Wilson Hussem
Emily Wilson Hussem is a speaker, best-selling author, wife, and homeschooling mom who shares her faith online and travels the world sharing her witness of faith at conferences and events across the globe.
Emily is the co-founder of SacredSpark - a new Catholic dating and matchmaking app, creator of Marcam — a Catholic children's TV show, and author of 7 books including Sincerely, Stoneheart and Insights for a Woman's Heart in the Spirit of The Screwtape Letters, as well as the beloved books for children God's Brave Boy and God's Glorious Girl. She lives in Southern California with her Dutch husband Daniel and their three glorious children.
Emily is the co-founder of SacredSpark - a new Catholic dating and matchmaking app, creator of Marcam — a Catholic children's TV show, and author of 7 books including Sincerely, Stoneheart and Insights for a Woman's Heart in the Spirit of The Screwtape Letters, as well as the beloved books for children God's Brave Boy and God's Glorious Girl. She lives in Southern California with her Dutch husband Daniel and their three glorious children.
Presentations:
7:30 p.m. Friday (Main Church): FAITH OVER FEAR by Emily Wilson
In a world full of noise, opinions, and subtle lies, fear can easily take the driver’s seat in our parenting and homeschooling. Drawing from Sincerely, Stoneheart and her own experience as a mother, Emily explores how to overcome fear in our vocation as mothers. This session offers practical tools for cultivating discernment rooted in faith, peace, and confidence in Christ.
9:30 a.m. Saturday (Main Church): JESUS, I TRUST IN YOU by Emily Wilson
Join Emily Wilson on a journey that will allow you to reflect on your journey of faith up until this day in your parenting and homeschooling. This session will help deepen your trust in God's providence, reflect on the ways He has been present in suffering, and surrender the future of your family's journey with Him.
7:30 p.m. Friday (Main Church): FAITH OVER FEAR by Emily Wilson
In a world full of noise, opinions, and subtle lies, fear can easily take the driver’s seat in our parenting and homeschooling. Drawing from Sincerely, Stoneheart and her own experience as a mother, Emily explores how to overcome fear in our vocation as mothers. This session offers practical tools for cultivating discernment rooted in faith, peace, and confidence in Christ.
9:30 a.m. Saturday (Main Church): JESUS, I TRUST IN YOU by Emily Wilson
Join Emily Wilson on a journey that will allow you to reflect on your journey of faith up until this day in your parenting and homeschooling. This session will help deepen your trust in God's providence, reflect on the ways He has been present in suffering, and surrender the future of your family's journey with Him.
Kory LaCroix
Kory LaCroix has served the local Church in various ministry roles for over 20 years and currently serves as the Pastoral Associate of Marriage and Young Professionals at Our Lady of Grace in Edina, Minnesota.
He began his theological studies at Saint John’s University, completing his undergraduate degree in 2010, and later earning a Master of Arts in Theology from the Augustine Institute. He's co-host of the popular The Storydram Podcast, where he tells stories to help share The Story.
Kory and his wife, Alicia, grew up a mile apart in Buffalo, Minnesota, and are the proud parents of six children through birth, adoption, and foster care. Together, they homeschool their children and seek to form them in faith, virtue, and mercy through the rhythms of family life—especially within the ordinary, beautiful chaos of family life, and through intentional solidarity with the poor and vulnerable near their home in the urban core of Minneapolis. A husband, father, and diaconate aspirant for the Diocese of Saint Paul and Minneapolis, Kory brings a candid, joyful, and deeply practical approach to inspiring married couples and families to live out their Catholic faith.
Presentations:
11 a.m. Saturday (Main Church) SHOWING UP FAITHFULLY: A FATHER'S QUIET INFLUENCE IN THE HOMESCHOOL HOME
Fathers have an influence in the homeschool home that cannot be replaced—and cannot be neutral. Whether intentional or not, a dad’s presence, priorities, and prayer life powerfully shape how children understand God, authority, sacrifice, and love.
In this challenging and encouraging workshop, Kory LaCroix calls fathers to recognize the weight of their spiritual leadership and the impact of their daily choices. Drawing inspiration from St. Joseph—who led not through words but through obedience, courage, and faithful action—this session will confront the temptation to remain passive and invite dads to step fully into their God-given role.
This workshop will challenge fathers to ask hard questions about availability, example, and prayer life, while offering practical ways to lead with quiet strength, consistency, and trust in the Lord. Fathers will be reminded that holiness in the home is not accidental—and that simply “showing up” with intention can shape souls for eternity.
1:30 p.m. Saturday (Main Church) FORMING SOULS IN A WORLD THAT FORGOT HOW TO WORSHIP
In a culture that rarely pauses, Catholic homeschool families are uniquely positioned to help children rediscover the meaning of worship and the gift of the Sabbath. In this engaging and practical workshop, Kory LaCroix will speak directly to homeschooling parents about forming souls amid the noise, busyness, and distractions of modern life.
Drawing from the Archdiocese’s Synod emphasis on observing the Sabbath, Kory will explore why worship is foundational to Catholic formation and how reclaiming Sunday as a day truly set apart can shape family culture, learning rhythms, and faith at home. Rather than seeing the Sabbath as a list of rules, participants will be invited to rediscover it as a joyful encounter with God that orders the entire week.
This session will offer practical insights for cultivating reverence, prayer, and authentic worship within the homeschool and family life. Parents will leave encouraged and equipped with concrete ways to model rest, worship, and love for God—helping their children grow into disciples who know how to worship, rest, and live rooted in Christ.
He began his theological studies at Saint John’s University, completing his undergraduate degree in 2010, and later earning a Master of Arts in Theology from the Augustine Institute. He's co-host of the popular The Storydram Podcast, where he tells stories to help share The Story.
Kory and his wife, Alicia, grew up a mile apart in Buffalo, Minnesota, and are the proud parents of six children through birth, adoption, and foster care. Together, they homeschool their children and seek to form them in faith, virtue, and mercy through the rhythms of family life—especially within the ordinary, beautiful chaos of family life, and through intentional solidarity with the poor and vulnerable near their home in the urban core of Minneapolis. A husband, father, and diaconate aspirant for the Diocese of Saint Paul and Minneapolis, Kory brings a candid, joyful, and deeply practical approach to inspiring married couples and families to live out their Catholic faith.
Presentations:
11 a.m. Saturday (Main Church) SHOWING UP FAITHFULLY: A FATHER'S QUIET INFLUENCE IN THE HOMESCHOOL HOME
Fathers have an influence in the homeschool home that cannot be replaced—and cannot be neutral. Whether intentional or not, a dad’s presence, priorities, and prayer life powerfully shape how children understand God, authority, sacrifice, and love.
In this challenging and encouraging workshop, Kory LaCroix calls fathers to recognize the weight of their spiritual leadership and the impact of their daily choices. Drawing inspiration from St. Joseph—who led not through words but through obedience, courage, and faithful action—this session will confront the temptation to remain passive and invite dads to step fully into their God-given role.
This workshop will challenge fathers to ask hard questions about availability, example, and prayer life, while offering practical ways to lead with quiet strength, consistency, and trust in the Lord. Fathers will be reminded that holiness in the home is not accidental—and that simply “showing up” with intention can shape souls for eternity.
1:30 p.m. Saturday (Main Church) FORMING SOULS IN A WORLD THAT FORGOT HOW TO WORSHIP
In a culture that rarely pauses, Catholic homeschool families are uniquely positioned to help children rediscover the meaning of worship and the gift of the Sabbath. In this engaging and practical workshop, Kory LaCroix will speak directly to homeschooling parents about forming souls amid the noise, busyness, and distractions of modern life.
Drawing from the Archdiocese’s Synod emphasis on observing the Sabbath, Kory will explore why worship is foundational to Catholic formation and how reclaiming Sunday as a day truly set apart can shape family culture, learning rhythms, and faith at home. Rather than seeing the Sabbath as a list of rules, participants will be invited to rediscover it as a joyful encounter with God that orders the entire week.
This session will offer practical insights for cultivating reverence, prayer, and authentic worship within the homeschool and family life. Parents will leave encouraged and equipped with concrete ways to model rest, worship, and love for God—helping their children grow into disciples who know how to worship, rest, and live rooted in Christ.
Nancy Bjorkman
After years of being a homeschool skeptic, Nancy began homeschooling her four children in 1992. Now, after over 30 years, she has become known as the Homeschool Mom Whisperer for many and a champion of the cause. She has spoken at homeschool conferences in over 10 states where she is known for her enthusiasm, energy, and encouragement. She finds joy in empowering parents to join the journey of homeschooling. Though she stays busy as a mentor and speaker, her favorite times are spent with her growing family including 9 grandkids. She and her husband owned HEPPNER’S LEGACY, a homeschool store in Elk River, MN, for 18 years and now are learning what it’s like to have more free time as they make the handoff to the new owners.
Presentations:
11 a.m. Saturday (Room 103): HOMESCHOOLING THROUGH HIGH SCHOOL
This very popular, interactive workshop will help to answer frequently asked questions about homeschooling through the high school years. We will consider course requirements, transcripts, record keeping, curriculum choices, dual enrollment opportunities, co-ops, CLEP and other testing options, resumes, career assessments, and more. Attendees will leave with the tools necessary and the confidence needed to homeschool through high school.
1:30 p.m. Saturday (Room 103): MATH OUTSIDE THE BOOK
This interactive workshop will cover the why’s and how’s of using games to bring math to life and increase understanding in students. We’ll discuss how to use games to enhance any curriculum. We’ll then dive into a highly visual and interactive review of games to use for specific goals, e.g., understanding number basics, mastering basic math facts, grasping the base-ten system, using multiple operations, and more. Let’s play!
Presentations:
11 a.m. Saturday (Room 103): HOMESCHOOLING THROUGH HIGH SCHOOL
This very popular, interactive workshop will help to answer frequently asked questions about homeschooling through the high school years. We will consider course requirements, transcripts, record keeping, curriculum choices, dual enrollment opportunities, co-ops, CLEP and other testing options, resumes, career assessments, and more. Attendees will leave with the tools necessary and the confidence needed to homeschool through high school.
1:30 p.m. Saturday (Room 103): MATH OUTSIDE THE BOOK
This interactive workshop will cover the why’s and how’s of using games to bring math to life and increase understanding in students. We’ll discuss how to use games to enhance any curriculum. We’ll then dive into a highly visual and interactive review of games to use for specific goals, e.g., understanding number basics, mastering basic math facts, grasping the base-ten system, using multiple operations, and more. Let’s play!
Cathie Baier
Cathie Baier and her six children began their homeschooling journey in 2003. Four of her children have graduated from high school with associate degrees. One is in graduate school. Two have graduated college, two are in college, and two are in high school. Before children, Cathie developed curricula and taught classes for adults worldwide on various topics in the computer industry at the corporate and post-secondary levels. She loves developing curricula, teaching homeschool co-op classes, and organizing clubs and classes for her kids. She and her family live in Bloomington, MN, and are parishioners at Nativity of Mary.
In addition to the Saturday presentations, Cathie is offering a Pre-Conference Friday Seminar.
Presentations:
11 a.m. Saturday (Room 107): BEGINNING HOMESCHOOLING - BEYOND THE BASICS
Are you new to homeschooling? Where do you start? How do you ensure an excellent (not just adequate) homeschooling experience, especially in that important first year? This practical how-to session will help you determine the appropriate first steps on your homeschooling adventure. We'll discuss picking a curriculum, scheduling, and strategies for developing an independent child and strengthening your family and social relationships.
12:30 p.m. Saturday (Room 107): GATHERING FOR PARENTS OF CHILDREN WITH SPECIAL NEEDS
During the lunch break, Cathie will host a relaxed, welcoming gathering for parents of children with special needs. This informal time offers an opportunity to connect with other parents, share experiences, exchange encouragement, and discuss practical insights in a supportive setting. Come as you are, enjoy your lunch, and be refreshed by meaningful conversation and community.
1:30 p.m. Saturday (Room 107): WELCOME THE SHEPHERD INTO YOUR HOME
One of the most beautiful faith formation programs available for preschool and elementary-aged children is the Catechesis of the Good Shepherd. This program helps children develop a genuine personal relationship with Jesus, the Good Shepherd, through parables and meditations. It allows children to discover the relationship between Sacred Scripture and the Mass. Your relationship with the Good Shepherd will blossom along with your child’s. We will talk about applying Sofia Cavalletti and Gianna Gobbi’s principles into practice in your homeschool.
In addition to the Saturday presentations, Cathie is offering a Pre-Conference Friday Seminar.
Presentations:
11 a.m. Saturday (Room 107): BEGINNING HOMESCHOOLING - BEYOND THE BASICS
Are you new to homeschooling? Where do you start? How do you ensure an excellent (not just adequate) homeschooling experience, especially in that important first year? This practical how-to session will help you determine the appropriate first steps on your homeschooling adventure. We'll discuss picking a curriculum, scheduling, and strategies for developing an independent child and strengthening your family and social relationships.
12:30 p.m. Saturday (Room 107): GATHERING FOR PARENTS OF CHILDREN WITH SPECIAL NEEDS
During the lunch break, Cathie will host a relaxed, welcoming gathering for parents of children with special needs. This informal time offers an opportunity to connect with other parents, share experiences, exchange encouragement, and discuss practical insights in a supportive setting. Come as you are, enjoy your lunch, and be refreshed by meaningful conversation and community.
1:30 p.m. Saturday (Room 107): WELCOME THE SHEPHERD INTO YOUR HOME
One of the most beautiful faith formation programs available for preschool and elementary-aged children is the Catechesis of the Good Shepherd. This program helps children develop a genuine personal relationship with Jesus, the Good Shepherd, through parables and meditations. It allows children to discover the relationship between Sacred Scripture and the Mass. Your relationship with the Good Shepherd will blossom along with your child’s. We will talk about applying Sofia Cavalletti and Gianna Gobbi’s principles into practice in your homeschool.
Father Patrick Evans
Father Evans is a Catholic priest belonging to Pro Ecclesia Sancta (PES), a society of apostolic life founded in Peru in 1992, dedicated to promoting holiness and the new evangelization through priestly ministry and consecrated life. Ordained as a member of this ecclesial family, he has served in missionary work, including leading Christmas outreach campaigns in remote Andean communities. In 2023, he was assigned as parochial vicar and associate pastor at the Church of Saint Mark in Saint Paul, Minnesota, focusing on sacraments and pastoral care. Currently, Father Evans Bello also holds the role of Vocations Director for the US Province-Male Branch of PES, guiding discernment and recruitment for the order's priestly and brotherly vocations.
Presentations:
3 p.m. Saturday (Main Church): FAMILY CONSECRATION TO THE SACRED HEART OF JESUS
Discover the power of family consecration with Father Patrick Evans. In this 30-minute talk, he’ll explain why the Church encourages this devotion and show simple, practical ways your family can live it every day. Perfect for families who want to deepen their faith and bring the love of Jesus into their home.
Presentations:
3 p.m. Saturday (Main Church): FAMILY CONSECRATION TO THE SACRED HEART OF JESUS
Discover the power of family consecration with Father Patrick Evans. In this 30-minute talk, he’ll explain why the Church encourages this devotion and show simple, practical ways your family can live it every day. Perfect for families who want to deepen their faith and bring the love of Jesus into their home.
