You're Invited!
Let's gather to connect, grow, and be strengthened in our mission to build Christ's Kingdom on earth. Get ready for a weekend set apart to unite our families, ignite the mission, and build lasting memories! Hosted on the beautiful, peaceful campus of Sacred Heart Apostolic School in Rolling Prairie, Indiana
Dr. Ray Guarendi
With his engaging wit and humor, Dr. Ray brings his keynote to life through his testimony of living God’s plan and answering Jesus’ call to go out boldly. Married for 42 years, the father of 10 adopted children, and a renowned Catholic psychologist, he shares a journey marked by surprises, joys, and sorrows. Through a courageous “yes” to Jesus, his life has touched countless others—inviting each of us to boldly live God’s plan and mission in our own lives.
Fr. Jason Brooks
Fr. Jason joined the Legionaries of Christ in 1994 and was ordained a priest at St. Mary Major’s in Rome on November 25, 2004. Since moving to Michigan in 2017, Fr. Jason has been genuinely inspired by his involvement with Encounter Ministries and has developed a passion for helping people experience the healing power of the Holy Spirit through healing services and individual prayer ministry.
Join us for a pre-Conference Gathering with Father Jason. He will lead us in Mass and a Eucharistic Healing Service.
Fr. Vinh Pham
Fr. Vinh joined the Legionaries of Christ in 2009 and was ordained a priest in 2021. He will show us that the love we have received in Christ calls us to go out to bring hope, healing, and joy. Through his stories, we’ll see how, guided by the Regnum Christi charism, we can become saints—people who act with courage, generosity, and unity—and trust the Holy Spirit to bring out the gifts God has given each of us. Rooted in His love and strengthened by His grace, we can go forth boldly, just as we are, confident that what the world needs most is what we carry within us: Jesus Christ.
Bishop Donald J. Hying
What would happen if every Catholic truly lived their vocation as a lay apostle? History gives us the answer. The Church has endured persecution, opposition, and cultural collapse not because of a few heroic leaders, but because ordinary lay men and women chose fidelity over comfort and courage over fear. From the early missionary work of Priscilla and Aquila to the sacrifices of the Korean Catholic Martyrs and the brave families of the Cristero War, the Church has always depended on the power of the laity. Bishop Hying, our friend and shepherd, will show us how that call belongs to us today and motivate us to live with Holy Boldness!
Guided by faith and passion, our weekend speakers bring years of wisdom to help you kindle the mission within your family and community.
Meet Our Speakers
Bishop Robert J. McClory
Bishop McClory is the Bishop of Gary, Indiana. Ordained a priest in 1999, he has served the Church as a pastor, seminary leader, and teacher, as well as rector and president of Sacred Heart Major Seminary. He was appointed bishop by Pope Francis in 2019 and installed in 2020. Known for his close pastoral presence, he is a trusted shepherd to the Legionaries of Sacred Heart Apostolic School and the faithful he serves.
Bishop McClory will be celebrating our closing Mass on Sunday, offering his wisdom on building a strong relationship with Jesus to become the bold missionaries He has called us to be.
Moments That Matter
A look back at the joy, fellowship, and mission from Unite the Family, Ignite the Mission 2025!
Q: Are meals included?
Yes, the registration fee of $70/adult, $40/student, and $349 maximum/family includes Friday night dinner, morning coffee & doughnuts, catered lunch and celebratory dinner on Saturday. Catered boxed lunches offered for purchase on Sunday.
Common Questions
Q: What are the options for lodging?
Holiday Inn Express (219-325-3700), Comfort Inn La Porte (219-326-7900), and Hampton Inn (219-362-6100).
For lodging near Lake Michigan, check VRBOs in New Buffalo, MI. Shoreline towns within reach include Michiana Shores and Duneland Beach, IN, and Grand Beach, MI. Higher end: Marina Grand Resort and Harbor Grand Hotel (New Buffalo, MI)
We have created a couple room blocks!
Hampton Inn Laporte:
If you are interested in booking a room, please use this link or call and mention that you would like the "Unite The Family" group rate.
You can choose either room option: 2 Queen Beds Nonsmoking or 1 King Bed Study with Sofabed Nonsmoking. The deadline to book with this rate is July 16, 2026.
Holiday Inn Laporte:
If you are interested in booking a room, please use this link.
Use Block Code: UTF and book by July 9, 2026 to secure the discounted rate. The rate is good for the following dates: Thursday, July 30, 2026-Monday, August 3, 2026
If you’re interested in a vacation rental instead, there may be Beachwalk homes and other lake houses in LaPorte, Rolling Prairie, or Michigan City. The closest zipcode for Airbnb rentals is 46371.
Q: How is the August weather in northern Indiana?
A: Early August in Rolling Prairie is one of the nicest times of the summer! Expect warm, sunny days in the low–mid 80s°F and comfortable evenings in the 60s°F, perfect for spending time outdoors.
We recommend bringing:
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Light, breathable summer clothing
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Comfortable shoes for walking
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Sunglasses and sunscreen
Q: Northern Indiana is far from home. What else is nearby, before or after the event, for my family to enjoy?
With proximity to Notre Dame, Lake Michigan, and Chicago, your family can experience giant sand dunes + urban adventure. Take a look at our TRAVEL page.