10 a.m. - noon

The Closing of the American Heart: Why young adults are steering clear of marriage and family and what we can do to revive the fortunes of the family.

Marriage and fertility rates are cratering, hitting lows never seen before in America’s history. This means that a record share of today’s young adults will never marry and never have children. But the paradox is that marriage and family life matter more than ever in the 21st century. Men, women, and children in married families are much more likely to thrive socially, emotionally, and financially than their peers who don’t enjoy the safety and stability of a married family. Professor Wilcox will reveal what’s happening to marriage and family life, why these two institutions are losing ground, and what we can do to revive their fortunes in 21st century America.

1 p.m. - 2:30 p.m. 

For the Sake of Our Kids: How and Why Marriage Matters for Children’s Well-Being Today.

Too many children are failing today. Too many boys are floundering at school, running into trouble with the law, and having difficulty launching successfully into adulthood. Too many girls are anxious, depressed, and worrying about their prospects for love and marriage. A big part of the problem here is that too many children are growing up outside of strong and stable families. Professor Wilcox will explain how and why kids raised by their own married parents are more likely to flourish in school, at work, and in life. And he will discuss new research that shows that marriage matters more than ever for the welfare of today’s children.

3:30 p.m. - 5 p.m. 

Session for lay marriage ministry leaders (optional for priests):
Mammon or Marriage? How to Maximize Happiness in Life and Love.
 
Most people today think that education, work, and money matter most when it comes to building a meaningful and happy life. But they are wrong. Drawing on the latest in social science and ancient wisdom, University of Virginia Professor Brad Wilcox will unpack a fundamental truth: Family life matters more for happiness than the degree on your wall or the money in your bank account. In fact, nothing predicts men’s and women’s happiness than a good marriage. Given this, Professor Wilcox concludes by revealing the five pillars of strong marriages in 21st-century America.

St. Patrick's Seminary and University
320 MIDDLEFIELD RD, MENLO PARK, CA 94025 
(Google Maps) 

Carpooling is highly encouraged.

The sessions will held in Sancta Maria Hall.
(download the campus facilities map here)