Spring & summer events
Spring & summer events
The heart of the identity of the Religious Brother, namely fraternity, is a gift that is received (mystery), a gift that is shared (communion), and a gift that is given away (mission). Source: Identity and Mission of the Religious Brother in the Church Vatican Document approved by Pope Francis, October 4, 2015.
Religious Brothers Day recognizes the life and vocation of Religious Brothers. It was first celebrated on May 1, 2017, the feast of St. Joseph the Worker. It was created by the U.S. Brothers Think Tank composed of the Conference of Major Superiors of Men, Religious Brothers Conference, Religious Formation Conference, NRVC, and Brothers representing various religious institutes. Religious Brothers Day is held annually on May 1 throughout the world.
God of mercy and compassion, we lift our hearts in deep gratitude for the men who have answered your call to serve as Religious Brothers. Through your divine wisdom, you have chosen these extraordinary men to lead lives dedicated to prayer, fraternity, and selfless service. Bestow upon each Brother the grace to live out their vows with unwavering joy and fidelity, embodying humility and love in all their actions. Grant them the strength to be powerful heralds of the Good News, serving as radiant beacons of hope and compassion to all those they encounter and accompany.
Deepen our appreciation for their vocation, their congregational charisms, and their lifelong commitment to their profession of vows. We pray for their communities to be places of prayer, fraternity, and mutual support, so each Brother can encourage one another and grow in holiness. Strengthened by our baptismal call to holiness, inspire us to support their vocation and to invite men to consider religious life as a Brother. We ask this through Christ, our Lord. Amen.
"The laughter, the prayer, age was never an issue for me. The one thing that was consistent was the relationships and the mentorships. And that real sense of just being Brother. Centered in Christ, first and foremost, and then with the community life, being able to take it to the apostolate and to give witness, as a community, was probably the best thing" (about being a Brother).
"To see these men, priests and brothers, working together on a project that seemed worth doing. They were very, very much individuals, unique, bringing very different things to the work, bringing different gifts to a work that seemed desperately in need of being well done."
"I did not know religious life where I was growing up because there was no religious around the area. It wasn't until later in life that I found out that there was religious, and there were also religious Brothers. That's really what attracted me to the community was more of the sense of family, the sense of prayer, and a sense of equality."
The NRVC has published a series of Abundant Hope videos which includes Brothers. The following videos are publicly available to share for Religious Brothers Day and at other events to promote the vocation of Brother:
Brothers of the Christian Schools
Brothers of the Christian Schools, Eastern North America
Brothers of the Sacred Heart, Province of the United States
Christian Brothers Conference, Regional Office
Congregation of Christian Brothers (Edmund Rice Christian Brothers)
De La Salle Christian Brothers, Midwest
De La Salle Christian Brothers, San Francisco, New Orle
Franciscan Brothers of Brooklyn
Hospitaller Brothers of St. John of God
Augustinian Friars, Western Province
Augustinians of the Assumption
Benedictine Monks, Assumption Abbey
Benedictine Monks, Christ the King Priory
Benedictine Monks, Glastonbury Abbey
Benedictine Monks, Mount Michael Abbey
Benedictine Monks, Newark Abbey
Benedictine Monks, Portsmouth Abbey
Benedictine Monks, Saint Procopius Abbey
Benedictine Monks, Saint John Abbey
Benedictine Monks, Saint Meinrad Archabbey
Canons Regular of the Holy Cross
Capuchin Franciscans, Custody of Puerto Rico
Capuchin Franciscans, Province of St. Joseph
Carmelite Fathers and Brothers, Province of St. Elias
Carmelite Friars, Most Pure Heart of Mary Province
Congregation of the Holy Spirit
Congregation of the Missionaries of the Precious Blood
Congregation of the Resurrection, CA
Congregation of the Sacred Hearts of Jesus and Mary
Discalced Carmelite Friars, Oklahoma Province of St. Therese
Dominican Friars, Saint Martin de Porres
Franciscan Friars of the Atonement
Franciscan Friars, Conventual, Our Lady of Consolation
Franciscan OFM Friars - U.S. 6
Jesuit Fathers and Brothers, Central and Southern Province
Jesuit Fathers and Brothers, East Province
Jesuit Fathers and Brothers, Midwest Province
Jesuit Fathers and Brothers, Western Province
Josephite Fathers and Brothers
Marianists, Province of Meribah
Maryknoll Fathers and Brothers
Missionaries of Our Lady of La Salette
Missionaries of the Precious Blood
Missionary Oblates of Mary Immaculate
Missionary Oblates of Mary Immaculate, Canada
Missionary Servants of the Most Holy Trinity
Missionhurst Congregation of the Immaculate Heart of Mary
Nortbertines of St. Norbert Abbey
Oblates of St. Francis de Sales, Wilmington-Philadelphia
Order of Friar Servants of Mary
Order of the Most Holy Trinity
Pallotines, Immaculate Conception Province
Pallotines, Mother of God Province
Passionists, Holy Cross Province
Passionists, Paul of the Cross Province
Priests of the Sacred Heart, Dehonians
Redemptorists, Edmonton-Toronto Province
Salesians of Don Bosco, Eastern Province
Salesians of Don Bosco, Western Province
Society of Jesus, East Province
Trappist Cistercian Monks, New Clairvaux
On this 62nd anniversary of the World Day of Prayer for Vocations, also liturgically known as Good Shepherd Sunday, we are invited to pray for and promote all vocations. Initiated by Saint Paul VI during the Second Vatican Council in 1964, the purpose of this day is to help all of us respond to God's call and to support in prayer all those who are discerning how to best respond to the needs of today in the vocation God calls them to be.
Participating in parish life is a way individuals can discern their vocation and receive prayerful support from parishioners. Matter of fact, people in parishes are more likely to encourage someone to discern their vocation than their own family members! Consider connecting with parishes and asking for opportunities to share information and resources about religious vocations. Examples include:
Many parishes and religious institutes commemorate this day by praying for vocations and supporting vocation promotion events. Considering that 73 percent of women and men professing final vows participated in one or more parish activities and 88 percent served in one or more parish ministries before entering religious life, our presence and participation in activities that mark this special day are essential.
Of particular note, respondents to the 2020 NRVC/CARA Study of Recent Vocations to Religious Life reported that the day-to-day rhythm of communal prayer is paramount in community life. Below are the types of prayer preferred by newer entrants:
Prayer is essential in all of our lives, join a global effort in praying for vocations on May 11, 2025. Embrace this annual event to deepen your vocation outreach with our thoughtfully crafted prayer intentions. Inspired by the various intercessions from NRVC Convocation liturgies, this new handout offers a rich, intercultural focus to choose from over 40 intentions for vocations. Customize this resource in three easy steps to inspire heartfelt prayers integrating your charism, mission, and spirituality. This Handout is also translated into Spanish thanks to the NRVC Incorporating Cultural Diversity into Religious Life Committee.
For those combining World Day of Prayer for Vocations with the Jubilee Year, order 3-inch colorful Jubilee logo stickers to give away at all Masses and events! Also, a new Pilgrims of Hope Jubilee Prayer for Vocations handout was created to use throughout the Jubilee Year. Both resources and many more choices are available in our online store.
"I think it was the 80-year-old Brothers, the wisdom figures of the community that were always the first in the Chapel and the last at the dining room table. I would always try to get there before them and never could. They were always there and you could count on them."
"I've noticed in the last ten years that young people seem to have a deeper interest in spirituality and what is their purpose in life. I don't know what brings that change about, I don't know whether it is the Holy Spirit at work, which I'm assuming that it would be, but there does seem to be a different attitude."
"I find most rewarding is our truly deep desire to seek God together and what God is calling us to in this time and place. I also deeply appreciate our prayer that sustains us."
"The most rewarding aspect of religious life is our community living. In community, we pray, live, recreate, and minister together. Our cohesiveness and sense of identity as religious serving others as ministers of the Gospel is wonderful!"
Cultivate within our hearts, minds, and spirits--our very selves--the disposition to fully live out our vocations, which have been planted in our hearts through our baptism,
And grant us the grace to say yes to our call daily, irrespective of how we may feel from moment to moment.
Let us know that we can come to You as we are, wherever we are, and as we accompany those discerning Your call. Help us to hear and
Listen to Your voice amid the various voices vying for our attention so that we may take the right actions that lead to abundant life.
Ignite in us a hope-filled passion for service, using our gifts to bring your Reign to fruition today and always.
Never let us forget that all we have are indeed gifts from You and that we are called to
Give all we are and have in love and service to You in our sisters and brothers. Amen.
Please note: NRVC members can download these resources in the Member Toolbox as a benefit or purchase them through these links.
Hearts Ablaze: a retreat for busy people
I Hope You Find prayer card in Spanish
Hearing God's Call: Thirty days of vocation discernment booklet
Pilgrims of Hope Jubilee Prayer for Vocations handout
Responsibilities of Members for Vocation Ministry
VISION Vocation Network articles on prayer
Resources offered by the USCCB
Resources offered by Serra International
Rosary for Vocations with the Luminous Mysteries
A vocation is a precious gift that God sows in our heart, a call to leave ourselves behind and embark on a journey of love and service. Every vocation in the Church, whether lay, ordained or consecrated, is a sign of the hope that God has for this world and for each of his children.
The discovery of our vocation comes about as the result of a journey of discernment. That journey is never solitary, but develops within a Christian community and as a part of that community.
Dear friends, the world pushes you to make hasty decisions and bombards you with a constant blare that prevents you from experiencing a silence that is open to God who speaks to the heart. Have the courage to pause, to listen to what your heart tells you, and to ask God about his dreams for you. The silence of prayer is indispensable if we are to learn how to hear God’s call amid the specific circumstances of our lives and to respond consciously and freely.
I urge that every effort be made to foster vocations in the various spheres of human life and activity, and to help individuals to be spiritually open to the Lord’s voice. It is important, then, that adequate space be given to the accompaniment of vocations in educational and pastoral planning.
-Pope Francis, World Day of Prayer for Vocations, 2025
2025 World Day of Prayer for Vocations Papal message
2024 World Day of Prayer for Vocations Papal message
2023 World Day of Prayer for Vocations Papal message
2022 World Day of Prayer for Vocations Papal message
2021 World Day of Prayer for Vocations Papal message
2020 World Day of Prayer for Vocations Papal message
2019 World Day of Prayer for Vocations Papal message
2018 World Day of Prayer for Vocations Papal message
2017 World Day of Prayer for Vocations Papal message.
2016 World Day of Prayer for Vocations Papal message.
2015 World Day of Prayer for Vocations Papal message.
2014 World Day of Prayer for Vocations Papal message.
2013 World Day of Prayer for Vocations Papal message.
2012 World Day of Prayer for Vocations Papal message.
2011 World Day of Prayer for Vocations Papal message.
2010 World Day of Prayer for Vocations Papal message.
2009 World Day of Prayer for Vocations Papal message.
2008 World Day of Prayer for Vocations Papal message.
2007 World Day of Prayer for Vocations Papal message.
2006 World Day of Prayer for Vocations Papal message.
A Prayer for Vocation Directors
God who calls me by name, I come before You with a heart full of gratitude for the many blessings You have bestowed upon me. I remember the moment You called me to serve You, to dedicate my life to helping others, especially the marginalized, the vulnerable, and those in most need. Just as You have shown me the path to compassion and love, I ask You to guide me in the ministry of vocations.
You have blessed me with the witness of those who have lived their faith with joy and devotion—whose lives radiate Your love, a community that supports and nurtures each other. Their example stirs something deep within me, to promote our way of life filled with purpose, joy, and a profound sense of peace.
As I follow Your call as a vocation minister, help me to see Your presence in the ordinary moments of life. Teach me to find You in every vocation event, every service, every prayer, every shared laugh, and every silent moment of contemplation. In Your presence, may I discover the joy of living fully for You, and inviting the next generation to follow You. Amen.
A Prayer for Vocation Discerners
God, even in my fear and doubt, Your call persists. In the stillness of my heart, I feel You gently urging me forward. You are calling me to something greater, a life not of my own making but one that is shaped by Your love and service to others. I surrender my fears and my uncertainties, to You. Help me trust that, even in the unknown, You will provide the courage and the strength to walk this path.
I ask for the grace to answer Your call with an open heart. May I live with the same fervor for holiness as those who have inspired me—those who have walked this journey before me, showing me how to live a life dedicated to prayer, service, and love. May I find strength my discernment to deepen my faith and help me grow in Your image.
Lord, may I be open to the support and encouragement of my family, friends, and community, who walk with me in faith. Grant me the grace to listen to Your voice, especially when it seems difficult, and to trust that Your call is full of hope, purpose, and peace. Help me to respond, Yes, and follow You with all my heart. Amen.
This year the NRVC is offering three workshops on-site at the Summer Institute in Leavenworth, KS, and five workshops virtually at the Fall Institute. These workshops are designed for vocation ministers, formation teams, communicators, religious leadership, and others entrusted with the assessment of discerners and candidates. Workshops are designed from the NRVC curriculum for those who wish to deepen their understanding of the complex theological, spiritual, psycho-sexual, ethical, and diversity issues often present in contemporary vocation ministry.
The Mission of the National Religious Vocation Conference reflects its commitment to providing members with educational opportunities, relevant resources, and other supportive services that strengthen and enhance the practiced ministerial skills of those serving in vocation ministry. The NRVC strongly suggests that vocation ministers participate in ongoing educational opportunities to attend to their own vocation, faith formation, and to further develop their professional competencies. It is essential for vocation ministers to keep up-to-date on trends, issues, skills, and best practices in the field of vocation ministry.
Our annual Summer Institute will offer three onsite workshops at the Marillac Center, in Leavenworth, KS, July 8-21, 2025. Choose to attend one or several workshops, it's your choice. All workshops include overnight accommodations at the Marillac Center. Enjoy the convenience of having a private bedroom and bathroom, along with linen service, wi-fi, meals, and breaks. Click on each workshop link for specific details.
July 9-13, 2025, Orientation Program for New Vocation Directors
July 15-17, 2025, Behavioral Assessment 1 workshop
July 19-20, 2025, Vocation Promotion for Today’s Discerners workshop
Please use our online store to register for Summer Institute workshops.
Take a virtual workshop this autumn in the comfort of your home. Enjoy a travel-free, hassle-free learning experience -- no packing required! Our experienced presenters will engage participants with a reasonable schedule integrated with screen breaks. We will mail your workshop materials to you. Click on each workshop link for specific details.
October 6-10, 2025, Virtual Orientation Program for New Vocation Directors
October 15-17, 2025, Virtual Behavioral Assessment 1 workshop
October 14, 21, and 28, 2025 (Tuesdays), Culture Matters: are we listening with today's discerners virtual workshop
October 20, 2025, Understanding the Lasting Impact of Childhood Trauma and Adverse Childhood Experiences (ACEs) on Candidates for Religious Life
October 29-30, 2025, Virtual Ethical Issues in Candidate Assessment workshop
Registration for Fall Institute workshops will open later this year.
Candidate Assessment through the Lens of Interculturality
June 13, 2025, Delaware Valley Member Area, Philadelphia, PA
September 6, 2025, Southwest Member Area, San Antonio, TX
October 18, 2025, Midwest Member Area, Chicago, IL
Registration is open for the June workshop in the store.
Workshops are open to NRVC members at a discounted rate and for non-members at an affordable price. Each workshop is $185 per person per day for members and $270 per person per day for non-members, regardless of the workshop. Summer Institute overnight accommodations are $115 per night and must be registered for the room block for each workshop.
If you would like to become an NRVC member to receive the discounted rate, click here.
Summer Institute registrations received after June 30 incur a $100 late fee.
Fall Institute registrations received after October 1 incur a $100 late fee.
Cancellations for workshops must be received in writing to dinasp@nrvc.net before June 30/Summer Institute, and October 1/Fall Institute to receive a full refund less a $100 processing fee. After June 30/October 1, all fees are non-refundable.
To assist NRVC members with their professional development, the Misericordia Scholarship Fund is available. Scholarship funds can be applied to NRVC workshops; however, they do not cover the cost of transportation, accommodations, meals, or personal expenses. If you need financial assistance to attend an NRVC workshop, find out more information here to apply online.
Please read our NRVC terms and conditions for all events and programs.
Direct your questions to Sr. Dina Bato, S.P. at dinasp@nrvc.net
Have you ever experienced asking a question that elicits very different responses depending on a person’s culture? Learning to be culturally mindful when assessing applicants for admission requires a clear lens to see the giftedness of the cultural wealth in each discerner and acknowledging the impact of socio-economic factors and generational trauma that impacts their health and behavior, such as Adverse Childhood Experiences (ACE), post-traumatic stress disorder, anxiety, depression, and heart disease. This workshop explores how different cultures express psychopathology and symptomology, including serious mental health issues that can be hereditary, and/or have enduring behaviors that require lifelong treatment that would preclude admission to vowed communal life.
This workshop will address how to respectfully gather the information needed without stereotyping, generalizing, or minimizing behaviors that can make community life challenging. It will also explore the blind spots, microaggressions, and implicit biases vocation ministers have during interviews. Come with your questions, your insights, and your curiosity to learn and unlearn interview techniques to assess all aspects of a person’s identity and culture. Bring your team members to learn together at the affordable cost of $25 per person.
This one day workshop will be offered 9:00 am to 3:00 pm in the following Member Areas:
June 13, 2025, Delaware Valley Member Area, at Redeemer Health Spark Transformation Center, 521 Moredon Rd, Huntingdon Valley, PA 19006
Registration is open in the NRVC store.
September 6, 2025, Southwest Member Area, St. Mary's University, One Camino Santa Maria, San Antonio TX 78228
October 18, 2025, Midwest Member Area, Franciscan Sisters of the Sacred Heart, 9201 W St. Francis Road, Frankfort, IL 60423
This workshop is part of the Conrad N. Hilton Foundation grant to the NRVC to provide interculturality workshops to NRVC members and their religious institutes to enhance skills to be cultural mindful leaders. As a result, each participant will be asked to create one intercultural goal.
The workshop fee of $25 covers lunch, breaks, materials, venue, and speaker stipend. We kindly ask NRVC members to register the total number of participants attending from their community for one payment in the NRVC on-line store.
Overnight accommodation is not provided. If needed, please seek the assistance of the Member Area Coordinators where the workshop is offered.
This workshop is open only to NRVC members and members in their religious institute. Click here to become an NRVC member.
Crystal Taylor-Dietz, Psy.D. is a licensed psychologist in Maryland and the District of Columbia. Since 2007, Dr. Taylor-Dietz has been working in behavioral health/mental health holding positions in community based, residential and outpatient services, including leadership, management and supervisory roles. She operates her private practice in Maryland conducting individual and family therapy with adults and adolescents. Dr. Taylor-Dietz was the director of Caritas Counseling Center, Saint Luke Institute in Maryland, a member of executive leadership, supervised clinical staff, provided clinical services, and managed the daily operations of the outpatient center. Dr. Taylor-Dietz is a member of the supervising faculty at The George Washington University Professional Psychology Program and was a teaching faculty member in the Child and Adolescent Training Program at the Washington School of Psychiatry. Her research/publications, teaching and clinical interests have included issues related to mental health/wellness, race/ethnicity, personality and culture and the intersection of psychology and spirituality.
Please read our NRVC terms and conditions for all events and programs.
Workshops are designed from the NRVC curriculum for those who wish to deepen their understanding of the complex theological, spiritual, psycho-sexual, ethical, and diversity issues often present in contemporary vocation ministry. NRVC recommends that vocation ministers participate in ongoing educational opportunities to attend to their own vocation, faith formation, and to further develop their professional competencies.
Please contact Sister Debbie at debbiesscm@nrvc.net
Registration is open for the June workshop in the NRVC store. Registration will open for the other two locations after June.
This foundational workshop is essential for all newly appointed vocation directors and teams. Its goal is to provide participants with the foundational skills, context, theory, challenges, and practicalities of contemporary vocation ministry. Topics will include accompaniment with inquirers, assessment of discerners, application and admission processes, vocation promotion, canon law, boundaries, animating vowed membership, relevant resources, current research, and establishing resiliency and promoting self-care of the vocation director.
Please note this five-day workshop begins on July 9 at 9:00 a.m. and ends on July 13 at 4:30 p.m. CST. Overnight accommodations are included, with arrivals after 3 pm on July 8 and departures before 9 am on July 14. If you are registered for the next workshop, you do not have to check out, your room and meals are provided between workshops.
This workshop will be the first workshop available at our annual Summer Institute at the Marillac Center, in Leavenworth, KS. It is the home of the Sisters of Charity of Leavenworth. The nearest airport is Kansas City (MCI) and ground transportation is available through Lyft, Uber, and Super Shuttle. The airport is 16 miles from the retreat center.
Eucharistic Liturgy for workshop participants will be offered each day at 8:00 a.m. in the Chapel, which includes Sunday Mass. All participants are invited to be Liturgical leaders for Mass.
Sister Deborah M. Borneman, SS.C.M. began working for the NRVC in 2011 and presently serves as the Director of Mission Integration. A Sister of Saints Cyril and Methodius, she previously served as vocation director for her community and on her congregational leadership team. Sr. Debbie has ministerial experience in pastoral care, youth ministry, college campus ministry, and immigration advocacy. She has presented on various topics in vocation ministry in Ireland and throughout the United States. Sr. Debbie holds a Master of Divinity degree and a Master of Arts Degree in Pastoral Studies (Loyola University, Chicago).
Friar Mario L. Serrano, OFM Conv., has experienced fraternity locally and globally. As a Franciscan friar, he was privileged to have mission experiences in Costa Rica, El Salvador, Honduras, Kenya, Mexico, and Zambia. His ability to speak Spanish gave him the unique experience of gathering with friars from around the world in Assisi for the 2019 and 2025 General Chapter as an English-Spanish translator. Before becoming the Province Secretary and Vocation Director for the Franciscan Friars Conventual, Province of Our Lady of Consolation, Friar Mario engaged in university ministry for 12 years in three different settings: at a Catholic University, a University Parish, and a Diocesan University Student Center.
Workshop fees include materials, speaker stipends, facility fees, all meals, and breaks. The workshop fee also includes overnight accommodations for 6 nights, arriving after 3:00 p.m. on July 8 (the afternoon before the workshop begins) and checking out by 9:00 a.m. on July 14 (the morning after the workshop ends). If you are registered for the next workshop, you do not have to check out, your room and meals are provided between workshops.
NRVC member: $1,600 Non-member: $2,075
Register in our online store.
Become an NRVC member here to save on workshop fees.
All workshop registrations received after June 30 incur a $100 late fee.
Cancellations for workshops must be received in writing to dinasp@nrvc.net before June 30 to receive a full refund minus a $100 processing fee. After June 30, all fees are non-refundable.
The Misericordia Scholarship Fund is available to assist NRVC members with their professional development. Scholarship funds can be applied to NRVC workshops; however, they do not cover the cost of transportation, accommodations, meals, or personal expenses. If you need financial assistance to attend an NRVC workshop, please apply here.
Please read our NRVC terms and conditions for all events and programs.
“The Orientation Program went above and beyond my expectations. I believe it has given me a great starting point for the future of my ministry.”
--Brother Peter Lamick, C.S.V.“It’s hard to name one thing that was most helpful. I gained a helpful overall grasp of how to be attentive to go through my work as vocation director."
--Fr. Patrick Kifolo, O.S.F.S."There are no words to describe [the presenters]. They are such amazing people, exemplary, great leaders, such a positive force. I can say for sure that they are two people that I will never forget. Thank you! May God continue to inspire and encourage many people through you."
--Sr. Marie Elise Kurikombil, F.S.S.E.“I came in with no expectations other than gaining pertinent information. This program not only provided a lot of information and resources, but it allowed for time to dialogue and form questions to take back to my community.”
--Mrs. Molly Hynes, representing
the Sisters of the Incarnate Word and Blessed Sacrament, TX
Workshops are designed from the NRVC curriculum for those who wish to deepen their understanding of the complex theological, spiritual, psycho-sexual, ethical, and diversity issues often present in contemporary vocation ministry. NRVC recommends that vocation ministers participate in ongoing educational opportunities to attend to their own vocation, faith formation, and to further develop their professional competencies.
Please contact Sr. Dina Bato, S.P. at dinasp@nrvc.net.
Register in our online store.
This foundational workshop teaches practical interviewing techniques in a theoretical framework of behavioral assessment. While the focus is on the initial assessment of candidates, the methodology is readily adapted to assessing candidates in other stages of formation. Interview topics include family background, educational and occupational histories, psychosexual histories and intimacy skills, faith history, Catholic practices, and other pertinent issues related to comprehensive vocation assessment.
Please note this three-day workshop begins on July 15 at 9:00 a.m. and ends on July 17 at 4:00 p.m. Central time. Overnight accommodations are included, with arrivals after 3 pm on July 14 and departures before 9 am on July 18. If you are registered for the next workshop, you do not have to check out, your room and meals are provided between workshops.
This workshop at our Summer Institute will be held at the Malliac Center, Leavenworth, KS. It is the home of the Sisters of Charity of Leavenworth, The nearest airport is Kansas City (MCI) and ground transportation is available through Lyft, Uber, and Super Shuttle. The airport is 16 miles from the retreat center.
Eucharistic Liturgy for workshop participants will be offered each day at 8:00 a.m. in the Chapel. All participants are invited to be Litirgical leaders for Mass.
Reverend Raymond P. Carey, Ph.D. is a priest of the Archdiocese of Portland, OR. He has taught at both the secondary and university levels and presently teaches at Mount Angel Seminary Graduate School of Theology in Saint Benedict, Oregon. Fr. Carey holds a doctorate in clinical psychology from the University of Ottawa, Canada. He has presented workshops in North America, Europe, Australia, New Zealand, and Fiji. He is a recipient of the NRVC Harvest Award and is recognized as a Lifetime NRVC member for his significant work in service of vocation ministry.
Workshop fees include materials, speaker stipends, facility fees, all meals, and breaks. The workshop fee also includes overnight accommodations for 4 nights, arriving after 3:00 p.m. on July 14 (the afternoon before the workshop begins) and checking out by 9:00 a.m. on July 18 (the morning after the workshop ends). If you are registered for the next workshop, you do not have to check out, your room and meals are provided between workshops.
NRVC member: $1,000 Non-member: $1,300
Register in our online store.
Become an NRVC member here to save on workshop fees.
All workshop registrations received after June 30 incur a $100 late fee.
Cancellations for workshops must be received in writing to dinasp@nrvc.net before June 30 to receive a full refund minus a $100 processing fee. After June 30, all fees are non-refundable.
The Misericordia Scholarship Fund is available to assist NRVC members with their professional development. Scholarship funds can be applied to NRVC workshops; however, they do not cover the cost of transportation, accommodations, meals, or personal expenses. If you need financial assistance to attend an NRVC workshop, please apply here.
Please read our NRVC terms and conditions for all events and programs.
Workshops are designed from the NRVC curriculum for those who wish to deepen their understanding of the complex theological, spiritual, psycho-sexual, ethical, and diversity issues often present in contemporary vocation ministry. The NRVC recommends that vocation ministers participate in ongoing educational opportunities to attend to their own vocation, faith formation, and to further develop their professional competencies.
“The sessions involved many practical examples and questions which could be asked. It also listed several criterial pertaining to different situations which are applicable to assessment. Father Ray has a lot of experience and is a talented speaker so it was not hard to maintain attention throughout.” --Dr. Daniel Micallef
“Fr. Ray is an expert in the field of conducting Behavioural Assessments, and I feel privileged to benefit from his knowledge and experience."
--Sister Marie James Hunt, F.S.P“The workshop gave me much information on the process of evaluating and interviewing seekers and inquirers to our community. It gave me much-needed background information and provided practical tools in the process. Though daunting to implement, the workshop provided more practical information than I expected.”
--Brother Joseph Kronebush, O.C.S.O.“This program has taught me the necessary skills in gathering needed data to effectively assess the candidate that I will be encountering."
--Sister Siena Fisk, O.S.B.:
Please contact Sr. Dina Bato, S.P. at dinasp@nrvc.net.
Register in our online store.
Have you ever tried to connect with young people about how God may call them to serve, only to find that your tactics “yielded crickets”? We all know that vocation promotion can be challenging, particularly given the various communication outlets available to the young and the young-at-heart. What may work in some instances may not work in others. What modes should we choose/use, when should we use them, and for how long? Further, what do we need to be aware of when using them?
In the ever-expanding world of new technology, communications, and marketing, vocation ministers must communicate well via various forms to promote religious vocations and accompany inquirers and discerners effectively. This hands-on workshop will explore strategic communication planning, social media content development and analysis of its effectiveness, and how to set up and post your original podcasts. Learn how to tap into and enhance the skills you already have to “speak the same language” as those you encounter, delve into the dos and don’t’s of strategic communication planning, and find ways to stay connected, challenged, and hopeful as you engage with today’s discerners.
Please note this two-day workshop begins on July 19 at 9:00 a.m. and ends on July 20 at 4:00 p.m. CST. Overnight accommodations are included, with arrivals after 3 pm on July 18 (the afternoon before the workshop begins) and departures before 9 am on July 21 (the morning after the workshop ends).
This workshop at our annual Summer Institute will be held at the Marillac Center, in Leavenworth, KS. It is the home of the Sisters of Charity of Leavenworth. The nearest airport is Kansas City (MCI) and ground transportation is available through Lyft, Uber, and Super Shuttle. The airport is 16 miles from the retreat center.
Eucharistic Liturgy for workshop participants will be offered each day in the Chapel, including Sunday Mass. All participants are invited to be Liturgical leaders for Mass.
Mrs. Renee Dee currently serves as the National Vocation Director for the Missionaries of La Salette and the NRVC Southeast Member Area Coordinator. Before her current ministry, Renée taught primary grades in Catholic schools in New York, Ohio, and Florida, served as a concierge and human resources generalist at a five-star resort, and ministered as a parish Director of Religious Education and Faith Formation. These distinctive service-oriented perspectives developed her approach to vocation promotion, intermingling hospitality, service, and communication. She has authored two books about a Gilded Age mansion-turned-resort near her home on Cape Cod, where she is the resident historian. She holds a master’s degree in Reading Education and a bachelor’s in legal studies.
Mr. Ernie J. Garrido works full-time in vocations for the Paulist Fathers, a position created in 2023 for a layperson. Ernie has 20 years of experience as a prolific mass media and communications professional. He has worked in magazine publishing, daily newspaper editorials, marketing and public relations, and social media campaigns. Ernie holds a bachelor’s degree in journalism from The University of Texas at Austin and was a proud member of the Longhorn Marching Band, the Showband of the Southwest. He is a Lifetime Member of the Texas Exes, the alumni organization. Ernie lives in Brownsville, Texas, with his wife of 8 years. They are both avid marathon runners.
Mr. Dan Masterton is a Catholic pastoral minister, writer, and communicator. He earned a BA in Honors Theology graduating cum laude from the University of Notre Dame. He also earned an MA in Theology from Catholic Theological Union. Dan is a lay Viatorian Associate and works for the Viatorian community in vocation ministry, youth and young adult ministry, and communications, which includes podcast production, video creation, and social media management. You can find Dan’s writing and ministry portfolio at linktr.ee/danmasterton. He is a writer for the NRVC HORIZON Journal and has presented at Talk it up Tuesdays. Dan lives in Bolingbrook, IL, with his wife and three daughters.
Workshop fees include materials, speaker stipends, facility fees, all meals, and breaks. The workshop fee also includes overnight accommodations for 3 nights, arriving after 3:00 p.m. on July 18 (the afternoon before the workshop begins) and checking out by 9:00 a.m. on July 21 (the morning after the workshop ends).
NRVC member: $700 Non-member: $900
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All workshop registrations received after June 30 incur a $100 late fee.
Cancellations for workshops must be received in writing to dinasp@nrvc.net before June 30 to receive a full refund minus a $100 processing fee. After June 30, all fees are non-refundable.
The Misericordia Scholarship Fund is available to assist NRVC members with their professional development. Scholarship funds can be applied to NRVC workshops; however, they do not cover the cost of transportation, accommodations, meals, or personal expenses. If you need financial assistance to attend an NRVC workshop, please apply here.
Please read our NRVC terms and conditions for all events and programs.
Workshops are designed from the NRVC curriculum for those who wish to deepen their understanding of the complex theological, spiritual, psycho-sexual, ethical, and diversity issues often present in contemporary vocation ministry. NRVC recommends that vocation ministers participate in ongoing educational opportunities to attend to their own vocation, faith formation, and to further develop their professional competencies.
Please contact Sr. Dina Bato, S.P. at dinasp@nrvc.net.
Register in our online store.
The theme of the Synod is Communion, participation, and mission. Pope Francis is inviting all the baptized to participate in this Synodal Process because all the baptized are the subject of the sensus fidelium, the living voice of the People of God. The Synod began in 2021 and is still continuing beyond 2024. Learn more about the Synod by using these helpful links.
65. Over the centuries, the Church has also been enriched spiritually by the many different forms of consecrated life. From the very beginning, the Church has recognized the action of the Spirit in men and women who have followed Christ along the path of the evangelical counsels, consecrating themselves to the service of God, whether through contemplation or other forms of service. They are called to interrogate Church and society with their prophetic voice. Across their centuries-long history, the various forms of consecrated life elaborated what we now recognize as practices of synodal living. These include how to practice discernment in common and to harmonize together individual gifts as well as pursue mission in common. Orders and congregations, societies of apostolic life, secular institutes, as well as associations, movements and new communities, all have a special contribution to make to the growth of synodality in the Church. Today, many communities of consecrated life are like laboratories for inter-cultural living in a way that is prophetic for both the Church and the world. At the same time, synodality invites - and sometimes challenges – pastors of local Churches, as well as those responsible for leadership in consecrated life and in the movements, to strengthen relationships in order to bring to life an exchange of gifts at the service of the common mission.
77. The lay faithful, both men and women, should be given greater opportunities for participation, also exploring new forms of service and ministry in response to the pastoral needs of our time in a spirit of collaboration and differentiated co-responsibility. In particular, some concrete needs have emerged from the synodal process. These ought to be responded to according to the various contexts: a) increased participation of laymen and laywomen in Church discernment processes and all phases of decision-making processes (drafting, making and confirming decisions); b) greater access of laymen and laywomen to positions of responsibility in dioceses and ecclesiastical institutions, including seminaries, theological institutes and faculties, more fully enacting existing provisions; c) greater recognition and support for the lives and charisms of consecrated men and women and their employment in positions of ecclesial responsibility; d) a greater number of qualified lay people serving as judges in all canonical processes; e) effective recognition of the dignity and respect for the rights of those who are employed in the Church and its institutions.
118. We recognize that institutes of consecrated life, societies of apostolic life, as well as associations, movements and new communities, have the ability to take root locally and, at the same time, connect different places and milieus, often at a national or international level. Their action, together with that of many individuals and informal groups, often brings the Gospel to highly diverse contexts: to hospitals, prisons, homes for the elderly, reception centers for migrants, minors, those marginalized and victims of violence; to centers of education and training, schools and universities where young people and families meet; to the arenas of culture and politics and of integral human development, where new forms of living together are imagined and constructed. We look with gratitude also to monasteries, which are places of gathering and discernment and speak of a “beyond” that concerns the whole Church and directs its path. It is the particular responsibility of the Bishop or Eparch to animate these diverse bodies and to nurture the bonds of unity. Institutes and associations are called to act in synergy with the local Church, participating in the dynamism of synodality.
144. The Church already has many places and resources for the formation of missionary disciples: families, small communities, parishes, ecclesial associations, seminaries and religious communities, academic institutions, and also places for serving and working with the marginalized, as well as missionary and volunteer initiatives. In each of these areas, the community expresses its capacity to educate in discipleship and to accompany through witness. This encounter often brings together people of different generations, from the youngest to the oldest. In the Church, no one simply receives formation: everyone is an active subject and has something to give to others. Popular piety, too, is a precious treasure of the Church, which teaches the whole People of God on the journey.
On March 21 and 26, 2025, the NRVC Board was invited through the USCCB-CCLV to participate in a National Synod Listening Sessions for the Interim Stage for Working Group IV and VI. The focus on Working Group 4 was the revision of the Ratio Fundamentalis Institutionis Sacredotalis in a missionary and synodal perspective. The focus of Working Group 6 was on the revision, in a synodal missionary perspective, of the documents (Mutuae Relationes) touching on the relationship between Bishops, consecrated life, and ecclesial associations. This was part of a wider invitation to the other consulting organizations in the CCLV committee: CMSM, CMSWR, LCWR, NACS (National Association of College Seminaries), NACTS (National Association of Catholic Theological Schools, USACV (United States Association of Consecrated Virgins), and USCSI (US Conference of Secular Institutes).
On October 31, 2024, the NRVC Convocation opened with a reflection from Mr. Wyatt Olivas, the youngest voting delegate at its opening prayer. Wyatt had just flown home from the Synod. The NRVC invited him to deliver reflections on Micah 6:8 in light of his experience at the synod. His reflection was published in the Winter 2025 edition of HORIZON.
On April 9, 2024, the NRVC International Member Area along with Vocations Canada and Vocations Ireland, hosted a 90-minute webinar with a presentation, breakout groups, and dialogue with the presenter, Synod voting delegate, Sister Elizabeth Davis, RSM of the Sisters of Mercy of Newfoundland and Labrador.
On March 20, 2024, the National Religious Vocation Conference and Religious Formation Conference (RFC) sponsored a synodal consultation for formation and vocation ministers. 256 registered for the event and 105 participated. Participants are current members of the NRVC and RFC from around the United States, Bangladesh, Canada, Peru, and Singapore, including brothers, sisters, religious priests, and lay ecclesial ministers. The religious institutes represented were apostolic, cloistered, evangelical, missionary, monastic, and societies of apostolic life. The consultation took place for 1.5 hours in the evening by Zoom.
For more information, reach out to Sister Debbie at debbiesscm@nrvc.net
Catholic Sisters Week (CSW) invites all to celebrate women religious (Sisters and nuns) from March 8-14. CSW is an annual celebration that began in 2014 to honor women religious with a series of events that instruct, enlighten, and bring greater focus to the lives of these incredible women. It’s a chance to recognize this valuable vocation with the hope that more people will learn about women religious, and invite others to follow their example.
Visit the CSW website to learn about Catholic Sisters Week, post or find an event near you, and join in celebrating the vocation of Catholic Sisters. You can post your event for others to see here.
Additional Resources can be found through the numerous VISION Vocation Network articles, Global Sisters Report Resources, the Leadership Collaborative video series, A Nun's Life videos, and this great video from Pope Francis.
Additionally, the NRVC has published 77 videos centered on the theme of Abundant Hope. All can be accessed directly through the National Religious Vocation Conference YouTube Channel and shared publicly to amplify hope for religious life. One idea is to share one video a day on your social media platforms throughout Catholic Sisters Week or suggest a few videos to share in classrooms, on campuses, at Board meetings, and at parish events.
Host a book club throughout spring using Benedictine Sister Joan Chittister's highly acclaimed 64-page book entitled, What are you looking for? Seeking the God who is seeking you. Another 99-page book to consider using is Your One Wild and Precious Life written by Father Mark David Janus, C.S.P.
Donate books about your founder, community history, and Catholic sisters to college campus ministry houses, school libraries, Adoration Chapels, and parish centers.
There are over 500 religious institutes for women religious in the United States. Check out these links to learn more about cloistered nuns, missionary sisters, apostolic sisters, evangelical sisters, monastics, and sisters in societies of apostolic life. Choose to "like" their social media pages and keep updated on their mission, charism, and spirituality.
Invite coworkers, associates, students, and nones into a conversation using the NRVC Study and Reflection Guide, which features 8 topics with comments from newer entrants to religious life, reflection questions, and inspirational quotes.
Write a poem and encourage others to publicize your poetry! Here's a beautiful poem written by NRVC member, Sister Cathy K. Tshitenge, f.m.m. to share with others:
Who is a Catholic Sister?
She is a woman of faith, strength, courage, and vision.
A follower of Jesus and doer of the Word of God,
A daughter attentive to the cries of the poor, women, children, and migrants.
An advocate of keeping our planet and environment healthy and clean.
A person who prioritizes personal and communal prayer.
A voice for the voiceless and outcasts of society.
A fearless woman of hope and peace.
A caregiver, a listening ear, and a compassionate person towards the sick, children, and the aged.
Let us Celebrate our Catholic Sisters now and always…
"When I met our Sisters, I was not discerning, but I was very struck by how authentic they were, that they were each totally themselves, and they were really happy, and joyful, and normal, and so that was what drew me to our community."
"I saw the passion of our sisters who fight for social justice whether it be the unborn, or those at the border. And that passion for social justice is filled with compassion. Passion with a lot of compassion. That's what fires me; that is what keeps me here."
"I just attended the final profession Mass for four women. Every Sister from around the country came. After they took their final vows, they stood at the front of the Church. Every Sister in the Church got up and walked to them. It took over an hour just to do that. All I could think of is, "This is why I'm here." I didn't know ten people in the whole Church. I just knew I wanted to be part of that."
"Talk it Up Tuesdays," are back in January 2025! These 60-minute Zoom gatherings are designed for members to learn together, encourage each other, and share ideas.
These one-hour sessions will start at 1:00 p.m. CDT and focus on a topic in vocation ministry. The time will consist of an opening prayer, introductions, a 20-minute short presentation, 15-minute breakout groups, and 15 minutes to share the best ideas, announcements, and gratitude. Best of all, these are free for NRVC members!
Tuesday, January 28, 2025, Found in Translation: Navigating generational communication nuances using Canva, presented by Mr. Jorge Martins (for the O.F.M. Guadalupe Province)
Tuesday, February 4, 2025, Vicars and Vocation Ministers: Allies in the Vineyard presented by Sister Mary Beth Bromer, C.S.S.F.
Tuesday, February 11, 2025, Sources of Encouragement: Inside and Outside of Vocation Circles, presented by Sister Judith Blizzard, C.S.S.F.
Tuesday, February 18, 2025, Enhancing Vocation Culture through Youth Ministry: Accompaniment, Empowerment, and Possibility presented by Brother Rafael Vargas, S.D.B.
Tuesday, February 25, 2025, We’re All Connected: Involving Community and non-Community members in Vocation Ministry, presented by Sister Mary Jo Curtsinger, C.S.J. and Sister Erin McDonald, C.S.J.
Tuesday, March 4, 2025, Keeping the Conversation Going: Leadership and Vocation Ministry in Collaboration presented by Brother John Skrodinsky, S.T.
Tuesday, March 11, 2025, Sometimes you need to pivot – incorporating non-religious tactics into vocation ministry, presented by Father Paul Shelton, SJ
Tuesday, March 18, 2025, Being the Voice of Hope: Navigating Vocation Ministry Challenges from Multiple Sources, presented by Father Stephen Sohe, S.S.J.
Tuesday, March 25, 2025, Full of grace: Incorporating Marian traditions in Vocation Ministry presented by Brother Mark Motz, S.M.
Tuesday, April 1, 2025, You Have What the World Needs: Conversations about Charism, presented by Sister Heather Jean Foltz, O.S.B.
Tuesday, April 8, 2025, Capture the Moment: Unplanned Instances of Inspiration, presented by Sr. Carolyn Martin, lsp
We look forward to seeing you for this interactive winter gathering! If there is a topic that you are willing to present, let us know and we will add it to the schedule.
Remember these sessions will not be recorded. Please refer all questions to Sister Dina Bato, S.P. at dinasp@nrvc.net
CONNECT WITH NRVC
10 - 11:30 a.m. via Zoom
via Zoom
via Zoom
Huntingdon Valley, PA
Chicago, IL
Chicago, IL
Being connected to others doing similar ministry is a big reason that Friar Emanuel Vasconcelos, O.F.M.Conv. is part of the NRVC. He is vocation director for the Franciscan Friars Conventual, Our Lady of the Angels province. He is also a Mid-Atlantic Member Area Coordinator, along with Sister Jean Rhoades, D.C. Read more...
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