I Am With You Always, Christ’s words of reassurance to his disciples after his resurrection, is the theme for the 23rd annual Catholic Charismatic Renewal Conference, which is planned for July 17 and 18 at the Holiday Inn City Centre in Peoria.

The speakers who will be breaking open that theme, which comes from Matthew 28:20, are Father Francis Dominic Valerio, a member of the Intercessors of the Lamb and parochial vicar at Mary Our Queen Parish in Omaha, Neb., and Linda Schubert, author, radio host and founder and director of Miracles of the Heart Ministries in Santa Clara, Calif. Music will be led by Joseph White, who has offered the same service at Masses, holy hours, retreats and conferences all over the United States and Canada.

Bishop Daniel R. Jenky, CSC, will return to the Catholic Charismatic Renewal Conference to celebrate the opening Mass at 8:15 p.m. on Friday, July 17. The liturgy will be preceded by the rosary and followed by a holy hour.

Also returning to serve as master of ceremonies is Father Eugene Radosevich, pastor of St. Luke’s Parish and director of the Salve Regina Newman Center, both in Eureka.

In addition to the eucharistic adoration, prayer room and healing service that have been staples of the conference, there will be opportunities to celebrate the sacrament of reconciliation with three senior priests of the Diocese of Peoria. They are Father John Dietzen of Peoria, Father Edward Harkrader of Princeton, and Father Edward Carney of East Peoria.

“When pulling together a conference like this, God calls the speakers,” said Mary Jane Sheldon, a member of St. Mary’s Parish in Downs and chair of this year’s gathering. “I feel very good about the fact that the Lord has called everyone who is going to be here.”

“There are a lot of people out there who are waiting for people to invite them,” Sheldon said. “They may not know anything about the charismatic conference. They may not know much more about the faith than going to weekly Mass. But there’s a beauty and peace and joy of Holy Spirit that’s with us. The movement of Holy Spirit is unmistakable.”

Registrations postmarked by July 3 are $50. The cost goes up to $55 for registrations mailed after that date or received at the door. A meal plan is available for an additional $20 with early registrations only.

The fee for full-time students is $25.

As always, there is no charge for clergy, religious and permanent deacons who wish to attend, but registration is requested so meals can be reserved.

Registration forms can be found at www.IAmWithYouAlways.net. More information is also available by calling Sheldon at (309) 242-5924.