McCaig, based in Ottawa, is the General Superior of the Companions of the Cross. On March 1 at the Metro Toronto Convention Centre, he will emcee the adult congregation of the 22nd annual Lift Jesus Higher Rally organized by Catholic Renewal Ministries. This year's theme is Hope Rising.

"All of our speakers will in some way, shape or form be working on that theme," he said.

President of Renewal Ministries Ralph Martin will be focused on hope and Scripture, and Sr. Ann Shields, author of books on Catholic spirituality, will touch upon hope and the Lord's mercy.

Other notable speakers include American Fr. Michael Gaitley, author of 33 Days to Morning Glory, a popular do-it-yourself retreat in preparation for Marian consecration. And Toronto's Cardinal Thomas Collins will celebrate the closing Mass.

McCaig hopes that attendees of all ages will "have an authentic encounter with Jesus" and "meet Him in a new way, be strengthened in their faith and strengthened in their walk of discipleship." He wants the rally to be "a conduit for the action of the Lord Himself."

McCaig is looking forward to the rally's eucharistic procession, calling it a high point, and praying the Chaplet of Divine Mercy.

He will also be preaching at the closing Mass for the youth rally taking place concurrently to the adult rally.

At the youth rally, award-winning Canadian musician Chris Bray will be leading worship through music. He will also be speaking on social justice.

"Each song is used to create a moment," he said. "Whether people expect it or not, these events are designed in a specific way to get people to a place of openness to receive what God has. This year's (youth) theme is Run the Race, so we will be encouraging endurance and perseverance." 

The rally runs from 9 a.m. to 5:30 p.m and costs $20 for adults and $10 for youth age 13-18. For more information and to purchase tickets, visit http://www.lift-jesus-higher-rally.org.