We are very excited about the wonderful speakers we have been able to line up for our second One in the Spirit celebration! Here is a brief introduction of each speaker.

General and Hispanic Track:

Cardinal Oscar Andres Rodriguez Maradiaga, became Archbishop of Tegucigalpa, Honduras in 1993 and then became the 1st Cardinal in history from Honduras in 2001. He has been a member of several Pontifical Councils, served as the Vatican’s spokesperson on issues of Third World debt, served as President of the Episcopal Conference of Honduras, and is the founder of the Catholic University of Honduras, “Our Lady Queen of Peace.” His unrelenting campaign for human rights and the poor has been widely praised.

General Track:

Bishop Ricard Joseph Malone, is the 11th Bishop of Portland, Maine. He was installed as Bishop of Portland after serving as auxiliary bishop in the Archdiocese of Boston, South Region. Bishop Malone has been an educator; has produced and hosted television programs for Boston Catholic Television; has been the archdiocesan liaison with the local Jewish community; and has lectured nationally on
Catholic education.

ValLimar Jansen, is a highly regarded singer, cantor and recording artist. She is also a college professor, a leader of worship and prayer and a workshop presenter at conferences across the United States. Known especially for her work with gospel, contemporary Christian and gospel-jazz styles, she sings a wide range of music, including spirituals and traditional, organ-based choral music.

Hispanic Track:

Omar Jesus Maytorena, from Sonora, Mexico is a lay minister, working as the Director for the team of the Catholic Evangelization Ministry - Bajo la Uncion. Watch for more information on Omar at a later date!

Youth Track: "It's the Tony Show!!"

Tony Melendez, is a successful musician and very talented guitarist whose spiritual music has been recognized worldwide. Born without arms, Tony has learned to overcome his handicap by playing with his feet. He uses his talents as a guitarist and composer for masses and other church related events including performing for Pope John Paul II. Tony has released seven albums, has published his book "A Gift of Hope", and has made many television appearances. He has received many awards and achievements. He is a living example of what the power of hope and faith can accomplish.

Fr. Tony Ricard, is a priest for the Archdiocese of New Orleans and pastor of Our Lady Star of the Sea Parish in New Orleans. He is also the core instructor of church doctrine for the Institute for Black Catholic Studies at Xavier University. He is the author of several books and well known inspirational speaker. At last count, he has preached in 18 countries! As a native of New Orleans, Fr. Tony has been dealing with the aftermath of Hurricane Katrina. For more information, visit his website.