Westfield’s 2026 UNIV group.

Every day, pilgrims flock to the city of Rome to experience the heart of the Catholic Church. It’s a bustling, beautiful and even chaotic panorama. Amid the convergence of cultures, everyone is united by a shared faith. This year, hundreds of young women had the opportunity to explore the splendor of the Universal Church during the 2026 UNIV Conference. 

“UNIV is an international meeting of young university women who seek to deepen their faith, their life, and fill their work with meaning” (univinspire.org). Founded in 1968 by St. Josémaría Escrivá, it now hosts more than 1,000 attendees yearly. These students gather for friendship, discussion, and prayer and leave the conference with a renewed sense of mission. 

During Holy Week, UNIV attendees journey closely with Jesus Christ at the climax of the liturgical year. The conference began with Palm Sunday Mass with Pope Leo XIV in St. Peter’s Square. Jesus’ triumphant entry into Jerusalem also marks his triumphant entry into our hearts, as sacraments and prayer are the backbone of the UNIV pilgrimage experience. 

This year, the theme was “Building Bridges: The Art of Dialogue,” supporting the Holy Father, Pope Leo XIV, in his efforts to promote unity throughout the world. UNIV Inspire sessions brought together young people for intercultural discussion, allowing participants to ask questions and hear insights from women of all backgrounds. 

Especially in this day and age, the Church calls us to foster and pray for peace. During the UNIV Keynote session, a panel of experts emphasized that we must create the conditions in our relationships where truth can be shared. Building bridges is not avoiding differences, but seeking understanding. Caitlin West, artist and podcaster, shares, “It's not you vs me; it's us against the problem, arm in arm, seeking the truth together.”

Diving even deeper, students participated in UNIV Lab Workshops led by industry professionals. There was a range of topics, from “Dialogue and Moral Clarity in International Politics,” featuring Juana Acosta, a Law Professor, to “Neuroscience - Brain Science of Dialogue,” with neuroscientist Hope Kean. Participants learned how to navigate conflict and build bridges within their unique circumstances. 

Throughout the week, attendees also toured the Eternal City, getting lost in the alleyways of Rome while feasting on the finest pizza, pasta and gelato. Of course, nothing compares to the magnificent major and minor basilicas that hold centuries of history and relics, demonstrating the enduring faith of the Early Christians. 

For many, the highlight of the week may have been the get-together with the Prelate of Opus Dei, Fernando Ocariz. Students shared their hearts, hopes, dreams and talents. As this future generation grapples with the advances of technology and AI, human work done as service to others becomes indispensable. The meaningful evening left everyone inspired, full of hope and ready to take on life. 

The 2026 UNIV Conference participants returned home eager to carry out their unique apostolic mission as bridge builders within their communities.