2026 CONFERENCE SPEAKERS
The call to Take Courage is a summons to live bodly as men of faith in a world that challenges what we believe and who we are called to be. The 2026 Annual Conference speakers embody that call – standing as witnesses to the strength that comes courageously from Christ.
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Together, they bring wisdom from the field, the pulpit, and the front lines of evangelization, offering powerful insight into how courage transforms not only our faith, but our families, our work, and our world. Their stories remind us that real courage is not the absence of fear, but the decision to trust God through it.
MATT BIRK
Matt Birk is a Harvard Economics graduate, 15-year NFL All-Pro veteran (including a Super Bowl championship), and former winner of the Walter Payton NFL Man of the Year award.
Matt was raised Catholic, but drifted away during his early career. After a personal search for answers, he re-embraced his faith and then lived it publicly – even to the point declining a White House visit because of his pro-life convictions. Today, as a husband and father of eight (based in St. Paul, Minnesota), he uses his platform to speak on leadership, teamwork, faith in the public arena, fatherhood and the pro-life cause.
Key Conference Take-Away:
Matt offers a powerful example of integrity and faith under pressure. His journey invites men to lead courageously on the field of life, as examples of bold, convicted faith.
FR. ROBERT SPITZER
Father Robert Spitzer, S.J., PhD, is a priest, philosopher, scientist, author and educator. He served as President of Gonzaga University (1998-2009)and oversaw its significant growth (student body +75 %, $200+ million raised).
Currently, he is the President of the Magis Center of Reason and Faith and author of 19 books, including international best seller, New Proofs for the Existence of God and Science, Reason and Faith.
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Fr. Spitzer acts at the intersection of faith and science, helping men and the Church engage modern culture with clarity, intelligence and conviction.
Key Conference Take-Away:
Fr. Spitzer challenges men not only to live their faith courageously, but to understand it deeply and to be defenders of truth and ambassadors of hope in a skeptical world.
JUSTIN FATICA
Justin Fatica is a nationally-known Catholic lay evangelist with over 20 years of full-time speaking experience, having addressed millions in more than 1,500 live events across 4 countries and 46 states.
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A graduate of Seton Hall University (B.A. Philosophy & Elementary Education) and Master of Arts in Education, he founded the ministry “Hard as Nails” in 2002. Justin lives his message of helping those wounded or discouraged realize their worth in Christ. His passionate and memorable style combines authentic vulnerability, high energy and a challenge to rise above the mediocrity we commonly face today.
Key Conference Take-Away:
Justin’s message invites men to recognize their dignity, own their story (including the struggle), and engage the world with hope and courage – especially in brotherhood and mission.
