Hope Does not Disappoint
By Sr. Celeste Arbuckle, SSS
This year’s Faith Formation Conference at Saint Matthew Parish in San Mateo gathered parish leaders, catechists, educators, parents, and young disciples from across the Archdiocese of San Francisco for a full day of renewal, learning and prayer. Rooted in the theme “Hope Does not Disappoint,” the conference brought together a vibrant community united in the mission of forming disciples and strengthening parish life.
Building upon the energy of Youth Day on Friday evening, Saturday’s conference offered participants a rich blend of prayerful worship, inspiring keynotes, and uplifting workshops in both English and Spanish. Attendees explored new tools for evangelization, pastoral leadership, and catechesis—returning home better equipped to serve their parishioners and students with confidence and joy.
Throughout the day, participants took part in praise and worship, meaningful conversations, and a wide array of practical sessions led by gifted speakers and ministry leaders. The exhibitor hall provided resources from Catholic publishers, organizations, and ministry partners, offering fresh ideas and inspiration for local parish ministries.
A particularly moving element of this year’s gathering was the all-day availability of sacred relics for veneration:
- Saint Carlo Acutis
- Saint Francis Assisi
- Saint John Basco
- Saint Thomas Du
- Saint Maria Goretti
- Saint Therese Lisieux
- Saint Padre Pio
- Blessed Casey Solanus
Many took the opportunity to pray quietly before the saints, entrusting loved ones to God’s mercy and seeking renewed strength for their ministries.
The Faith Formation Conference continues to be, as many participants expressed, “more than a day out—it’s a spiritual and pastoral investment.” It stands as an annual reminder that when we gather as Church—learning, praying, and encouraging one another—hope truly does not disappoint, because God continues to pour His love into our hearts through the Holy Spirit.
We extend our gratitude to all presenters, parish staff, volunteers, exhibitors, and participants whose collaboration made this year’s conference a joyful celebration of faith and mission. May the seeds planted here continue to bear fruit across our parishes, schools, and communities in the year ahead.
Sr. Celeste Arbuckle, SSS is the director of the Office of Faith Formation for the Archdiocese of San Francisco.
