First the Soil. Then, the Seed.
How do we help the next generation fall in love with the Faith—and never want to leave?
We take our children to Mass. We teach them the Our Father, Hail Mary, and Glory Be. We give them a Catholic education.
But how do we help the Faith take root so deeply that it becomes part of their DNA? Something they come to know, love, and live for themselves?
We believe the answer ISN’T to do more — to sow more seed — but to cultivate “good soil”.
For centuries, Catholic formation cultivated the imagination, formed habits, and helped children recognize (and love) what is good, true, and beautiful.
That tradition was lost.
At the Forming the Whole Person Conference, we’ll rediscover it. And bring it to bear on the two places where children are formed most directly: the classroom and the home.
Friday, November 20 – For Catholic Educators & Homeschool Parents
Friday attendees may attend Saturday’s conference free.
Saturday, November 21 – For Parents & Grandparents
Spouses attend Saturday free.
Two Days. Two Unique Opportunities for Formation.
Foundations for Personal Formation
FRIDAY, NOVEMBER 20, 2026
For Catholic Educators & Homeschool Parents
It’s more than learning about the Faith — or math, science, and history, for that matter.
It’s about becoming a lover of wisdom…
So, how can your philosophy, classroom practices, stories, and habits all work together to inspire a person who “seeks the truth in love”?
Spend a day at Sacred Heart Academy exploring an integrated approach to formation—one that seeks to shape the intellect and will through the heart and desires.
What You’ll Explore
An Integrated Approach to Formation
Sean Nolan, headmaster of Sacred Heart Academy, will explore the vision of the human person that underlies an intentional approach to education.
Habits of Attention
Elizabeth Black, with the Institute for Catholic Liberal Education, will examine how what we behold shapes who we become—and what that means for education.
Cultivating the Moral Imagination
Zach Good of The John Henry Newman Institute will explore how great stories, heroes, and beautiful literature help form the heart, intellect, and will.
“Garden Tours”: See Formation in Action
Some things must be seen to be understood…
At Friday’s conference, you’ll have opportunities to visit Sacred Heart Academy classrooms and observe the work of formation in action.
We’ve intentionally kept attendance small to preserve the natural classroom environment, allowing you to observe the rhythms, relationships, and practices that help form the whole person without disrupting the very thing you’re there to see.
The day also includes Mass, opportunities for prayer and Adoration, panel discussions, practical ideas shared by Sacred Heart Academy teachers, and a closing social gathering.
A special invitation: Friday attendees may attend Saturday’s parent conference free.
Foundations for Formation in the Home
SATURDAY, NOVEMBER 21, 2026
For Catholic Parents & Grandparents
We want to see our children (and grandchildren) fully human. Fully alive…
The good news is the rhythms of family life we choose can help them grow toward that vision.
This day is an opportunity to step back from the daily demands of parenting and consider what matters most—not to add another list of things to do, but to develop a clearer vision of the good life — the virtuous life — you’re helping your children discover.
What You’ll Explore
Intentional Parenting
Sean Nolan will help parents consider the kind of life they want their children to discover and how family life can be shaped around that vision.
Habits of Attention in the Home
Elizabeth Black will explore how everyday experiences shape what children notice, admire, desire, and learn to love.
The Spirituality of the Home
Damon Owens will explore the relationship between faith and family life. Of the Church and the domestic church.
The day includes Mass at the Cathedral, refreshments at Cathedral Square, lunch, opportunities for conversation, separate sessions for mothers and fathers, and time to consider how these ideas can take root in your own family.
Location: Cathedral Square, downtown Grand Rapids.
A special invitation: Spouses attend Saturday free.