SOLD OUT: National Family Conference

Internationally acclaimed speaker Chris Stefanick features at the fully booked Inaugural National Family Conference in October.

Known for his dynamic talks and inspiring presentations, Chris brings a wealth of experience in helping families and individuals deepen their faith and embrace the joy of Catholic family life.

His keynote, broadcast live from the USA, promises to be a highlight of this landmark event that takes place on Saturday 25 October 2025, from 10:00am to 5:00pm at St Bride’s Hall, Muir Street, Motherwell, ML1 1PP.

The conference will also feature engaging talks, prayer, and opportunities for community, celebrating the gift of marriage and family life.

Participants will be encouraged to reflect, share, and connect with other families in a welcoming and faith-filled environment.

The event is organised by the National Commission for Marriage, Family and Life of the Bishops' Conference of Scotland.

Timetable

10.00am
Registration

10.30am
Opening Prayer & Welcome

11.00am
Keynote Speakers 1: John & Angela Deighan – addressing worries, pressures and challenges faced by families

11.45am
Comfort Break

12.00pm
Keynote Speaker 2 – Chris Stefanick (live link from USA) – vision of how ‘Home Church’ could be a source of evangelisation

1.00pm
Lunch – families to bring own (tea/coffee/juice/water made available). There is a Wetherspoon's and several cafes within a five minute walk of the venue.

2.00pm
Workshop/Group Discussions

3.15pm
Comfort Break

3.30pm
Families gather before Mass

4.00pm
Mass in Our Lady of Good Aid Cathedral (next to conference venue)

Location of Venue
St Bride’s Hall, 31 Coursington Rd, Motherwell ML1 1PP (across street from Our Lady of Good Aid Cathedral, Motherwell

Travelling by Train
The nearest train station to St Bride’s Hall is Motherwell Station, approximately a 10 minute walk to St Bride’s Hall.

Travelling by Car
There is a large free car park across from St Bride’s Hall as well as free parking on the street itself.

Travelling by Bus
Bus routes 201, 240, 240X, 242, 266.

Children
Throughout the morning (11am-1pm) and afternoon (2-3.15pm) sessions, there will be supervised age-appropriate activities provided for children aged 3 years and over in another room within the hall complex – one group for 3 – 9 year olds and one group for those aged 10 years and over.

For those children aged below 3 years, there will be an allocated space set aside for them to play with their toys within the conference hall, in sight of their parents.

Portraits of Courage to highlight persecution

A powerful photo exhibition depicting breathtaking images of inspiring Christians from all over the world takes place next week.

Portraits of Courage will shine a light on the stories of persecuted and suffering Christians from around the world.

It is hosted by Aid to the Church in Need Scotland (ACN) and takes place on Thursday 19 June from 6:00pm to 8:00pm, at ACN's Scottish office at Dalziel Building, 7 Scott Street, Motherwell.

Register here.

William More, Operations Manager for ACN Scotland, said: "Portraits of Courage offers a window into the lives and communities we serve at Aid to the Church in Need.

"This exhibition is more than just a display of photographs — it’s an opportunity for us to come together as ACN Scotland with friends, supporters and benefactors, and to connect with the stories that inspire our work every day.

“We extend a warm invitation to all who wish to become more aware and engaged with the story of Christian persecution.”

Fresh from the success of their sold out Scottish Catholic conference in March, Portraits of Courage will provide a further opportunity to engage with the charity but this time in their offices.

There will also be a chance to purchase handmade items from the ACN trading department and light refreshments and nibbles will be provided.

Benefactors can obtain free tickets for the event by calling 01698 337 470 or by visiting the Office.

Portraits of Courage Thursday 19 June, 6:00pm to 8:00pm, ACN, Dalziel Building, 7 Scott Street, Motherwell. Register here.