"The conference is for fathers and grandfathers of all ages. It focuses on the role of fathers in Catholic family life," says Jerry Daniels, one of the group of Springfield area men who organized the event.

The conference will begin with Mass at 8 a.m., with Bishop Thomas John Paprocki, the celebrant. A complete buffet breakfast will follow in the St. John Vianney Activity Center. Msgr. Carl Kemme, vicar general and pastor of St. John Vianney, will give the welcoming remarks.

The keynote speaker will be Father George McInnis, from the Kentucky-based Congregation of the Priests of Mercy (CPM), whose primary apostolate is to preach parish missions and retreats.

"About six years ago a group of Catholic men in the Alton area began holding a conference for Catholic fathers. A group of us from here attended several of theirs, and really enjoyed them," said Daniels. "Last year we held our first conference here, and it was very well received."

The cost is $15, for a prepaid registration; $17 at the door with a reservation, or $18 at the door without a reservation. Pre-registration is due Oct. 26. Send checks payable to Catholic Men's Conference, 1009 N. 7th St., Springfield, IL 62702.