The sounds of praise and worship echoed through the Bronx Thursday evening as the New York Regional Encounter opened its three-day conference at St. Nicholas of Tolentine Church. Organized by Encounter Ministries, the gathering brings together Catholics from across the region—and even around the world—for a weekend focused on deepening faith and encountering the power of the Holy Spirit.

“This weekend is really all about pouring out into the Lord and receiving just more of the Holy Spirit,” said Lauren Gentry, director of the New York Encounter School of Ministry. “Receiving the transforming love and power of God—to be filled up and to then go forth into your own community and share the love of Jesus with people.”

The evening featured extended worship and a keynote talk by Father Mathias Thelen, president of Encounter Ministries. His message focused on Baptism in the Holy Spirit, a grace he says is available to every baptized believer that often remains untapped.

“There’s a whole other dimension in the Christian life that she had not even tasted yet,” Father Thelen said, recounting the story of a woman who experienced a personal spiritual awakening. “And my prayer is that this weekend… you will have to tell someone that you taste in the mouth of God.”

Participants filled every pew of the large Bronx church, representing parishes and ministries from across New York and beyond. For many, the event offered an opportunity to reconnect with their faith and find encouragement in community.

While the conference is open to priests and lay leaders, organizers emphasized that anyone is welcome.

“Anyone who’s just hungry for more of the Lord is welcome,” Gentry said. “It’s not about staying here—it’s about coming and being filled up and going out.”

The New York Regional Encounter continues through Saturday and includes keynote talks, praise and worship, adoration, and opportunities for healing ministry.

For more information or to register, visit www.encounterministries.us.