Seven students, accompanied by Chaplain Father Peter Tremblay, began the new year in Columbus, Ohio, joining more than 17,000 Catholics from across the country for an unforgettable experience of faith and fellowship.
“I can’t believe I almost missed it,” shared Gabe Waits ’28 after his return to campus. “I had really looked forward to being home and spending time with family, but I knew this was a once-in-a-lifetime chance, so I had to go.”
Waits, along with seven other students, chose to give up the last portion of their winter break to participate in SEEK, a transformative conference hosted by the Fellowship of Catholic University Students (FOCUS). Since the early 2000s, SEEK has been a cornerstone event, drawing together college-aged people and young adults to deepen their faith, discover service and career opportunities, build community, and worship. This year’s conference, held simultaneously in Columbus, Ohio; Fort Worth, Texas; and Salt Lake City, Utah, welcomed over 26,000 attendees nationwide. The students from Elon were able to participate in the conference thanks in large part to several donors to Elon Catholic Campus Ministry.
A major highlight of SEEK is its lineup of highly regarded presenters. Participants listened to keynotes from speakers such as Father Mike Schmitz, a campus minister at the University of Minnesota Duluth and a bit of an internet sensation. His engaging videos and the popular “Bible in a Year” podcast have encouraged millions worldwide. Along with Father Mike, fellow priests, religious sisters and Catholic influencers delivered powerful messages centered on love, mercy and overcoming shame. Even Pope Leo shared a special video message to all in attendance.
“The overwhelming message was that you are wanted, you are loved,” shared Father Peter Tremblay, associate chaplain for Catholic Life. “Students face so many challenges and often carry burdens of shame. Hearing keynote after keynote address, these topics left our students feeling seen, valued, and hopeful.”
Anna Morelli ’29 echoed this sentiment: “SEEK was a great reminder that God is a loving God, and He knows everyone so personally and deeply.”
The seven students who attended the conference gathered for lunch in McEwen a week after returning to campus. As the conversations and reflections wound down, the lasting impact of SEEK was evident. Even after returning to the bustle of life at Elon, students continue to carry the experience with them.
“SEEK helped me realize that after graduation, staying connected to a Catholic community will be essential,” Gavin Michaud ’26 said. “Seeing thousands worship together made living out my faith—wherever I go—feel much less daunting.”