ENCOUNTER Mercy: Diocesan Youth Convention 2026

ENCOUNTER 26 – Registration CLOSED

Join hundreds of teens from across the Diocese of Youngstown for a day-long event where youth groups gather together for a communal and inspirational faith experience. The day features dynamic breakout sessions, a keynote speaker, Mass with Most Reverend David J. Bonnar, praise and worship, Adoration, and time with friends. Experiencing Christ’s Love for us as both sacrificial and redemptive, we can tune into our innate desire to run to Jesus with all we are and have and cultivate a personal relationship with Him.

March 14 | 11:00 am-8:00 pm | Walsh University

Keynote Speaker: Mari Pablo
National Catholic Speaker, Former Youth Minister and High School Theology Teacher

The registration process is completely online this year! With that, the waiver/medical release forms for both minors and adults will be completed via Google forms. Once these waivers are completed and approved, they will be sent out to you (the Group Leader) to send to your parents and chaperones in the order in which you register. These waivers are due by February 8, 2026. *Please note that this process happens manually and not automatically, which means form responses may take 1-2 business days to be sent back to you, depending on how many are received at the Office at one time. Thank you for your patience in advance! 

• PROMO VIDEO

• Mari Pablo’s Invitation to YOU! (Share with your youth groups!) 

Interested in Contributing as a Volunteer?

ENCOUNTER is not possible without the time and talents of our generous volunteers! If volunteers are over the age of 21 they must be in line with the Diocesan Safe Environment Policy. To learn more about becoming compliant, please click HERE. To sign up to volunteer, please fill out THIS WAIVER by February 26th!

SPONSORSHIPS DUE February 12, 2026

• This event is not possible without the generosity of our sponsors! If you are a parish, school, or business interested in supporting the Young Church, please kindly consider making a donation or becoming a sponsor today for ENCOUNTER. Your sponsorship goes directly to offset the costs of meals, content, and merchandise.  Click HERE to fill out your sponsorship form online! Thank you so much for your generosity!