The 18th annual diocesan Catholic Men for Jesus Christ conference will be held Feb. 28 in St. Gregory the Great Parish, Hamilton Square. Themed “Dare to be a Disciple,” the all-day will feature motivational talks, opportunities for prayer and fellowship and Mass.

Scheduled speakers include Jesse Romero, a religious educator, martial artist, and former deputy sheriff; former N.Y. Mets catcher Mike Piazza, whose 16-year career included 12 All Star games and 10 Silver Slugger awards, and a special “blockbuster guest.” Dan Duddy, head football coach in Donovan Catholic, will lead a special youth track for men in grades eight to 12. Mass will be celebrated by Msgr. Leonard Troiano, episcopal vicar for Ocean County and pastor of St. Pio of Pietrelcina Parish, Lavallette.

Established in 1997, Catholic Men for Jesus Christ recognizes that men are not meant to answer Jesus’ call to “follow me” alone. The conference intends to bring men together to build each other up, support one another and challenge one another on their spiritual journeys to become the men that they are created and called to be.

Bill Maher, event organizer, noted the conference is an attempt to promote male volunteers in many parishes and stem the assault on man and manhood in the media. “We see more and more conversion stories of men afterwards,” he said. “This conference is a worthy task. It is a great spiritual shot in the arm.”

Admission is $25 general admission and $10 for students.

Attendees are urged to register online at catholicmenforjesuschrist.org.

For further information, check the website or the group’s Facebook page.