Unity in truth: Bishop Michael Olson addresses diocesan SEEK attendees
Bishop Michael Olson speaks to SEEK 2026, Fort Worth attendees during the Diocesan Gathering on Jan. 4, 2026 at the Gaylord Texan in Grapevine. (NTC/Susan Moses)
“They do not belong to the world any more than I belong to the world. Consecrate them in the truth. Your word is truth. As you sent me into the world, so I sent them into the world. And I consecrate myself for them, so that they also may be consecrated in truth. I pray not only for them, but also for those who will believe in me through their word, so that they may all be one, as you, Father, are in me and I in you, that they also may be in us, that the world may believe that you sent me.” – John 17:16-21
GRAPEVINE — True unity is not found in race, economics, education, or language, but only when Christ is at the center, Bishop Michael Olson told Catholic faithful during the diocesan gathering at the SEEK 2026 Conference at the Gaylord Texan in Grapevine on Jan. 4.
“Unity is the witness to the truth of Christ’s Gospel,” the bishop said, addressing university campus ministry students, high school students, and parish faithful from across the diocese.
When sin causes alienation and separation, he reminded attendees to recall Jesus’ prayer in John 17, which calls for unity among humanity.
“It's especially important for you who are missionary disciples on our campuses by your witness to show that unity to be merciful, forgiving, patient — but also clear and direct about how the Lord really is the truth, and this is really His church,” he said.
To truly show Christ’s love, he added, is to witness to the poor, care for those on the margins, and listen carefully.
“I am very proud of all of you and very grateful to be your bishop,” he said. “As we go forward now, especially as you’ve come together, continue to work together amidst your campuses.”
The bishop also cautioned the youth to avoid arguments on the liturgy and to practice prudence in their studies.
“Study the good things that are trustworthy,” he advised. “Reason is an important gift that God gives us, and it helps us to explain our faith.”
Hearts ready to share
Recent Tarleton State University graduate Cielo Medina Ardizzi was among the attendees at the diocesan gathering. Having attended SEEK for four consecutive years, Medina Ardizzi said her biggest takeaway from this year’s conference was “seeing how effective Christ is in hearts that are willing to serve Him and share Him with others.”
When she first attended SEEK, only 23 peers joined her. This year, that number grew to 70 students.
“It’s a small university, but the hearts there are so willing to serve God and bring Him to everyone,” she said. “It just makes this beautiful, beautiful group of people who love each other and love Jesus and are happy to be here.”
Also present was Victoria Ramon, director of youth, young adult, and campus ministry for the diocese. Ramon worked closely with many of the groups of young Catholics who attended SEEK 2026.
Her message to fellow attendees? “Surrender yourselves to the will of God.”