How Encounter Changes Our Lives with Brian Kissinger

Gotta Be Saints

Gotta Be Saints
How Encounter Changes Our Lives with Brian Kissinger
Jun 07, 2026
Brendan Gotta

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This episode is Part Two of a special series in partnership with Franciscan University of Steubenville. In Part One, I sat down with Dr. Stephen Hildebrand to discuss why authentic Catholic education matters. Today, we turn our attention to another essential aspect of the Christian life: encounter.

Joining me is Brian Kissinger, Executive Director of Steubenville Conferences, for a conversation about those moments when Jesus Christ breaks into our lives and changes everything.

For more than fifty years, the Steubenville Conferences have been helping young people and adults encounter the Lord through the sacraments, prayer, authentic community, and powerful preaching. We discuss the origins of the conferences, the vision of Fr. Michael Scanlon, TOR, and the lasting impact these conferences have had on countless lives.

Brian also shares his own story of encountering Christ as a teenager at a Steubenville Youth Conference, and we explore why personal encounter with Jesus remains at the heart of the Christian life. Together, we reflect on the importance of expectant faith, authentic community, and creating space for God to work in our lives.

Whether you are a parent, a young adult, or simply someone longing for a deeper relationship with Christ, this conversation is an invitation to remember that Jesus knows you personally, loves you deeply, and desires to encounter you right where you are.

Steubenville Conferences:
Steubenville Conferences

Power & Purpose Conference:
Power & Purpose Conference

Franciscan University of Steubenville:
Franciscan University of Steubenville

Use code GOTTABESAINTS25 for $25 off your registration to the Power & Purpose Conference.

About Brian Kissinger:

Brian Kissinger serves as the Executive Director of Steubenville Conferences. A longtime youth minister, speaker, and conference leader, Brian first encountered Christ in a profound way at a Steubenville Youth Conference as a teenager. Today, he helps lead one of the most impactful Catholic conference movements in the world, serving hundreds of thousands of young people, adults, clergy, and religious.

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