Self-Mastery for Self-Gift: What Is It and Why Do We Need It?
November 7 – 8, 2025 | Holy Spirit Seminary, Edmonton
The Eparchy of Edmonton invites men from across Alberta and beyond to take part in the annual Called to Be Holy – Men’s Conference, a two-day spiritual gathering designed to inspire, renew, and strengthen men in their Christian vocation. This year’s conference will be held November 7–8, 2025, at Holy Spirit Seminary (12909 – 113 Avenue NW, Edmonton).
Purpose of the Conference
In a world filled with noise and distraction, men are invited to step aside for a time of reflection and rediscovery. The theme for this year’s conference, “Self-Mastery for Self-Gift,” calls participants to cultivate discipline and inner freedom so that they can give themselves more fully to God and to others.
Drawing upon the words of St. Paul: “Do not be conformed to this world, but be transformed by the renewing of your minds…” (Romans 12:1-2), the conference will explore what it means to live a Christ-centred life of virtue, service, and purpose.
Program Overview
The weekend will feature presentations, prayer, reflection, and fellowship centred on Christian manhood and spiritual maturity. Participants will have the opportunity to attend Divine Liturgy, receive the Sacrament of Confession, and engage in small-group discussion with other men of faith.
The program will include:
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Inspiring keynote sessions
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Opportunities for prayer and confession
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Panel discussions and dialogue
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Communal meals and fellowship
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Time for quiet reflection and spiritual renewal
Friday
5:30 – 6:30 pm. Optional Supper – this must be prepaid
6:30 – 6:45 pm. Welcome, Introductions. Bishop David – Remarks. In the chapel
6:45 – 7:10 pm. Prayer Service in Chapel
7:15 – 8:15 pm. Fr. Michael Winn Session 1 – Main gathering area: The Inner Battlefield: Mastering the Passions in Christ
8:15 – 9:30 pm Fellowship and Mingling Activity. Main gathering area.
Saturday
8:45 – 9:30 am. Confession available
9:30 – 10:45 am. Divine Liturgy – Confessions available
Instructions for the day
10:45 – 11:00 am. Refreshments available
11:00 – 12:00 pm. – Session 2 Brian Holdsworth: How to be Human in an Inhuman World
12:00 – 1:00 pm Lunch.
12:30 – 1:00 pm Confession available.
1:00 – 2:00 pm. Session 3 Fr. Michael Winn: The Kenotic Man: Living Self-Emptying Love in a Fallen World
2:00 – 2:15 pm. Refreshment break
2:15 – 3:15 pm. Guided Panel Questions
3:15 – 3:30 pm. Evaluation Forms
3:30 – 5:30 Vespers, pizza and fellowship.
Keynote Speakers
Fr. Michael Winn, Rector of Holy Spirit Seminary, will serve as the keynote speaker for this year’s event. Drawing from the Christian East’s teaching on theosis — becoming partakers in the divine nature – Fr. Michael will guide participants through two sessions:
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The Inner Battlefield: Mastering the Passions in Christ – a reflection on the call to ascetical struggle as the path to true self-gift.
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The Kenotic Man: Living Self-Emptying Love in a Fallen World – an exploration of how self-discipline leads to Christ-like love and service.
Joining him will be Brian Holdsworth, a well-known Catholic communicator and digital evangelist, who will offer a reflection titled “How to Be Human in an Inhuman World.”
Brian will also take part in a discussion panel exploring practical ways men can live their faith with courage and integrity in today’s culture.
A Time for Renewal
The Called to Be Holy Conference has long been a space for men to renew their faith, deepen their understanding of God’s call, and strengthen one another through fellowship. Participants consistently describe it as a moment of clarity and grace, a chance to rediscover what it means to be men of prayer, integrity, and service in their families, parishes, and communities.
Registration Information
Registration opens September 17, 2025.
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Before October 1:
$85 (commuter) | $145 (live-in) -
After October 1:
$95 (commuter) | $155 (live-in) -
Optional Friday supper: $20
The registration fee includes Saturday breakfast, lunch, and snacks.
Participants can register online at https://tinyurl.com/Calledtobeholy25
Invitation to Attend
Men of all ages: fathers, sons, students, and parishioners are invited to take part in this meaningful weekend of prayer, reflection, and fraternity. Step away from the demands of everyday life and allow Christ to renew your heart.
“The one who has tamed his tongue, guarded his eyes, and ruled his heart becomes a living icon of Christ.”
– Fr. Michael Winn
Join us this November at Holy Spirit Seminary and discover what it means to live as men fully alive in Christ.