Eucharistic Encounter
March 6 to March 7
Mark your calendars for the Diocese of St. Augustine’s 2026 Eucharistic Encounter, formerly known as the Eucharistic Congress, taking place during Lent on March 6–7. Queen of Peace Parish will host the Friday evening events, and St. Joseph Parish will host Saturday’s sessions.
Centered on evangelization and how the Eucharist draws us closer to Christ, the Encounter will feature keynote speaker Julianne Stanz, former director of Evangelization for the Diocese of Green Bay, USCCB consultant, and now Director of Evangelization and Formation for Loyola Press, which is sponsoring her visit.
Dr. Gerardo Salázar, former director of Evangelization and Catechesis with Hispanics for the Archdiocese of Galveston-Houston and now National Bilingual Consultant for Sadlier Religion, will lead the Spanish tracks at both locations.
Father Stephen Gadberry, a priest of the Diocese of Little Rock and Fellow of the Word on Fire Institute, will present in both English and Spanish. Known for his dynamic preaching and joyful spirit, Father Gadberry competed on season 10 of American Ninja Warrior and enjoys preaching the Gospel, music and archery.
More information will be coming. If you have questions, email emcgeever@dosafl.com.
Friday, March 6
Queen of Peace Catholic Church, 10900 SW 24th Ave., Gainesville
4 p.m. | Doors Open. Sacrament of Reconciliation available.
5:30 p.m. | Mass with Bishop Erik T. Pohlmeier as the principal celebrant. Adoration available in the chapel
6:45 p.m. | Keynote presentation with Julianne Stanz in the church
8:30 p.m. | Spanish Track with Dr. Gerardo Salazar in the parish hall, English Track with Father Stephen Gadberry in the church.
9:15 p.m. | Eucharistic Exposition and Closing Benediction in the Church
Saturday, March 7
St. Joseph Catholic Church, 11757 Old St. Augustine Rd., Jacksonville
7:15 a.m. | Doors open, Sacrament of Reconciliation available
8:30 a.m. | Mass with Bishop Erik T. Pohlmeier as the principal celebrant
10 a.m. | Eucharistic Procession with parishes, ministries and lay apostolates carrying banners
11 a.m. | Keynote presentation with Julianne Stanz
Noon | Lunch break
1-3 p.m. | English Track with Father Stephen Gadberrry and Dr. Gerardo Salazar in the church. Spanish Track with Dr. Gerardo Salazar and Father Stephen Gadberry in the Cody Center.
3:15-3:45 p.m. | Eucharistic Exposition and Closing Benediction in the church.