Frequently Asked Questions

What is CONVIVIO?

Convivio is a weekend high school conference where students from grades 9 through 12 come together to reflect upon contemporary society, to share their experiences, thoughts, interests, and to propose explanations and answers to the problems and challenges that we experience in today’s world.

How did CONVIVIO get started?

The first Convivio started in 1977 with a group of young people who were united by a desire to change the world. As a response, they decided to act by getting together with other young people in a faith conference. During the conference, they discussed questions and found deep and meaningful answers for all those in the world who needed their help. Since then, it has spread like wildfire! Thousands of young people from around the world have been touched by the experience of participating in Convivio, including many in the Diocese of Bridgeport, where Convivio CT happens yearly.  With the support of then-Bishop William Lori, Convivio came to the Diocese of Bridgeport in 2010.  Since then, Convivio has continued to grow and touch many lives with the support of the Diocese and Bishop Frank Caggiano!

What makes CONVIVIO special?

CONVIVIO is a Catholic conference run by the youth, for the youth. It is carried out by local high school students who act as leaders in their parishes, schools, and communities.  These high school students help to organize the weekend, give talks and witnesses, and lead small group discussions, as well as invite their friends to Convivio in the spirit of those founding teens in 1977!

What happens at CONVIVIO?

Coming from different towns and regions, teens meet at Sacred Heart University in Fairfield, CT to challenge each other to ask profound questions, find answers rooted in truth, and encounter Christ, through talks, small group discussion, prayer, and participation in the Sacraments. They also have time for a concert and games!

Is there a theme?

Yes!  Every year there is a different theme and this year’s is “Made for More”

How is the theme chosen?

The CONVIVIO Committee meets to identify some of the problems, questions, and concerns about the world.  Through prayer and reflection, these problems, questions, and concerns become a theme to discuss, explore, and pray about during the weekend!

Who participates?

Students from grades 9 through 12 from all parts of the Diocese of Bridgeport – sometimes even from outside the Diocese!

When is CONVIVIO?

Convivio takes place on the the first weekend of March (March 2-4, 2018).  It runs Friday 4 pm – 9 pm, Saturday 9 am – 9 pm, and Sunday 9 am – 4 pm.

Where does CONVIVIO take place?

CONVIVIO CT is held at Sacred Heart University in Fairfield, CT.

Is CONVIVIO a sleep-over conference? Do participants stay over?

No.  Participants return home each night and come back the next morning to continue the conference weekend.

Are meals provided?

Yes.  Dinner is provided on Friday; lunch and dinner on Saturday; and lunch on Sunday.

Can I get involved if I am a high school student?

Yes!  If you are a high school student and feel that God is calling you to something other than being a participant, you can apply to become a group leader and help facilitate the weekend conference by leading small group discussions.  You must have already attended at least one Convivio weekend before applying. To become a group leader CLICK HERE.

Can I still get involved if I’m not a high school student?

Absolutely! Invite teens to come: your children, siblings, friends, youth group, teens in the parish or elsewhere. You can also volunteer to stay with our Lord in the chapel holding the Blessed Sacrament, or remain present as a general volunteer helping our entire weekend come together. CONVIVIO has something for everyone! To become a volunteer CLICK HERE.

Don’t see your question here?

Please don’t hesitate to contact us at [email protected]