Future with Hope Women's Conference

03/25/2025

Friends, we're canceling the April 5 Future with Hope Women's conference at St. Thomas More Cathedral in Arlington. Unfortunately, registration was too low to move forward. Those of you who had registered received an email about refunds.

I'm saddened that you won't get to meet best-selling author Your Beautiful Second Act with Author Maria Morera Johnson in person next month.

We'll look at rescheduling this event in the fall and will keep you posted. Special thanks to our sponsor, the Arlington Diocese Council of Catholic Women, for the continuing support.

03/09/2025

Why is Martha the conference's patron saint?

We chose Martha because:

1. Martha got cranky. She invited Jesus into her family’s home and, while she was bustling about getting everything perfect, her sister Mary just sat and listened to their guest. Who wouldn’t be a little upset? But when she complained to Jesus, the answer was unexpected: “Martha, Martha, you are worried and distracted by many things; there is need of only one thing. Mary has chosen the better part, which will not be taken away from her.” (Luke 10:41-42 NRSVCE) 1.We pledge to attendees that they can shut off their inner Martha and listen to Jesus as soon as they arrive. We’ve taken care of all the details. For you, there is need of only one thing here.

2. Martha had unshakable faith amid crisis. Her brother was dead and she knew, if their friend had been there, Lazarus would still be alive. She told Jesus that. Still, when Jesus said Lazarus would rise again, she did not expect Jesus to bring him back immediately, but rather on the last day. When Jesus probed her statement, she answered, “Yes, Lord, I believe that you are the Messiah, the Son of God, the one coming into the world.” (John 11:27 NRSVCE) We pledge to attendees that speakers and other resources will help you believe that the Lord’s plan is best, even when we can’t see it, and arm you to battle the demons of discouragement and self-doubt.11.

03/04/2025

Hi friends! Tomorrow, March 5, is the final day to get the special rate at the Hilton Arlington. The rate, for April 4, the night before the conference, is $159 before taxes and parking. This is a $70 savings from the Hilton's regular rate. The Hilton is steps from the Ballston Metro stop and a mile from the Cathedral

Our group code is WGT (Womens Get Together). You can book via https://www.hilton.com/en/attend-my-event/dcavahf-wgt-ae8985b8-dfd5-41e7-b255-869fb2d601c1/ or by calling Hilton reservations at 1-800-445-8667 and provide the group code.

02/21/2025

On Substack today, Maria Morera Johnson, this year's FWHW speaker, contemplates our lives in exile. Check it out!

the intersection of life and faith

02/15/2025

Here's what CatholicMom.com founder Lisa Hendey had to say about Maria Morera Johnson's new book, "A Beautiful Second Act:"

"Whether you are anxiously anticipating your 'second act' or are firmly ensconced in living it, let Maria Morera Johnson be your companion in more fully engaging with your truest God-given purpose. A Beautiful Second Act offers a cast of amazing women who shine their lights and point the way to living with great momentum, desire, and soul. This is the book I wish I'd had years ago. It will be my new go-to gift for all the women in my life."

02/14/2025

Have you seen the renovations at the Cathedral of St. Thomas More yet? Here's Bishop Burbidge's homily last September at the Solemn Mass and Dedication of the Altar. The Future with Hope Women's Conference on April 5 includes Mass with the St. Thomas More community... and a guided tour! Register today at https://www.paypal.com/ncp/payment/BD8THYDGUDTSS.

https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=GdUKJINgWYo&t=12s

In Bishop Burbidge's homily for the Solemn Mass and Dedication of the Altar for the Cathedral of Saint Thomas More, Bishop Burbidge recalled the themes of pr...

02/12/2025

Registration is OPEN! https://www.paypal.com/ncp/payment/BD8THYDGUDTSS

Please join us Saturday,April 5 at St. Thomas More Cathedral as best-selling author Your Beautiful Second Act with Author Maria Morera Johnson shares insights about holy women who experienced challenges in their transition to midlife and beyond, and about how the Cuban devotion to Our Lady of Charity helped her grow in faith and love.

Plus! Mass, a tour of the Cathedral, breakfast and lunch, small-group discussion... what's not to love?

Please see https://futurewithhopewomen.com/2025-conference for more details.

Join us at the Cathedral of St. Thomas More in Arlington, VA! Registration is now open! Learn more about the day.

10/29/2024

We're BAAACK! Save the Date! April 5, 2025, at the Cathedral of St. Thomas More. Best-selling author Maria Morera Johnson will speak on her new book, Your Beautiful Second Act, with examples from women saints, laywomen, and "contemporary soul sisters" on how to embrace the post-40 stage of life! Registration will begin in February. In the meantime, SAVE THE DATE!