ENCOUNTER 2026

Our next diocesan youth convention (“Encounter”) will have the rolling theme, “Encounter MERCY”!

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, 2026 | 11:00 am-8:00 pm | Walsh University

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

REGISTER TODAY

Get your tickets for ENCOUNTER MERCY by clicking HERE!

Registration opens December 1st

Cost: $40 until January 15th; $50 January 16-February 1st

Tickets available until February 1st or until sold out!

Please note: All teens must be registered through their youth minister, campus minister, or parish group leader; teens cannot register individually. 

Please also note that we are capping the event at 250 this year! Don’t wait to buy your tickets!

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.

Sponsorship packages are now available for ENCOUNTER 2026 – the diocesan youth convention! 

DEADLINE: February 12, 2026

Please submit your payment by credit card or eCheck online:
Diocese of Youngstown
Re: ENCOUNTER DYC
144 West Wood St
Youngstown, Ohio 44503

Questions? Please contact Maddie (DiSalvatore) Francisco at mfrancisco@youngstowndiocese.org.