Join us on Sunday, September 20, 2026, from 3:00–6:00 pm, at the St. Joseph Spiritual Ministries Center in Newton, Massachusetts, for a dynamic and Spirit-filled Preaching Slam.
Rooted in Luke 10:38–42, Jesus' visit to the home of Martha and Mary, four Catholic women preachers from diverse backgrounds will offer powerful reflections on this beloved Gospel passage and what it asks of us today. Through their unique voices and experiences, they will explore themes of discipleship, hospitality, contemplation and action, faithful leadership, and the call to encounter Christ in the midst of our busy and complex lives.
The afternoon will include prayer, music, outstanding preaching, and opportunities for fellowship and conversation. Whether you are seeking spiritual renewal, fresh insight into Scripture, or the joy of gathering in community, this Preaching Slam promises to inspire, challenge, and encourage you as we listen together for God's living Word.
Please note: This is an in-person event held at the St. Joseph Spiritual Ministries Center, Walnut Street, Newton, Massachusetts. Space is limited so we encourage early registration.
About the preachers:
Kelly Meraw has served as Director of Liturgy, Music, and Pastoral Care for the St. John–St. Paul Collaborative in Wellesley, Massachusetts for the past decade. She has recently joined the faculty at Newton Country Day School of the Sacred Heart as Director of Vocal Music. A co-founder of Women of Faith and contributor to Discerning Deacons, she is passionate about women's leadership, synodality, interfaith engagement, and building a more listening and inclusive Church.
Calista Robledo is a minister, writer, and preacher from South Texas who serves as Director of Faith Formation at Our Lady of Sorrows Parish in Sharon, Massachusetts. A graduate of St. Edward's University and Boston College's Clough School of Theology and Ministry, her writing has appeared in the National Catholic Reporter, and she has published a Substack newsletter for five years.
Lynn Cooper is Sr. Associate Director of the University Chaplaincy and Catholic Chaplain at Tufts University. She holds degrees from Boston University School of Theology and Harvard Divinity School and is passionate about interfaith ministry and storytelling. She is the author of Embracing Our Time: The Sacrament of Interfaith Friendship.
Crista Carrick Mahoney is Assistant Director of Spiritual Formation at Boston College's Clough School of Theology and Ministry. She holds a Master of Divinity and a post-master’s certificate in spiritual formation from Boston College, as well as a bachelor’s degree in English from the College of the Holy Cross. With extensive experience in campus ministry and spiritual direction, she accompanies students across the Christian tradition and is committed to fostering spiritual growth, connection, and formation.