Fall & winter events
Fall & winter events
This year the NRVC is offering three workshops on-site at the Summer Institute in Leavenworth, KS, and three workshops virtually at the Fall Institute. In addition, the Behavioral Assessment 2 workshop will be offered in Tucson, AZ, December 2-3, 2023. 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 5-24, 2023. 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. Because of COVID restrictions, the workshops are limited to 23 participants each.
Workshop registration is open in the online store.
Orientation Program for New Vocation Directors
July 11-15, 2023, presented by Sr. Deborah Borneman, SS.C.M., and Fr. Adam MacDonald, S.V.D.
Ethical Issues in Vocation and Formation Ministry
July 18-19 2023, presented by Rev. Raymond P. Carey, Ph.D.
Behavioral Assessment 1
July 21-23, 2023, presented by Rev. Raymond P. Carey, Ph.D.
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.
Workshop registration is open in the online store.
Virtual Orientation Program for New Vocation Directors
October 9-13, 2023, presented by Bro. Joseph Bach, O.S.F., Sr. Deborah Borneman, SS.C.M., and Deacon John Eustice, C.S.V.
Virtual Behavioral Assessment 1 workshop
October 17-19 2023, presented by Rev. Raymond P. Carey, Ph.D.
Virtual Accompaniment and Communication with Young Catholics workshop October 24-26, 2023, presented by Dr. Stephen Carroll, Ph.D., Dr. Charlotte McCorquodale, Ph.D., and Mr. Darius Villalobos
The Behavioral Assessment 2 workshop builds upon the acquired skills of Behavioral Assessment I and is designed as a seminar. Because it is directed to those who have had experience in conducting assessment interviews, all participants must have taken Behavioral Assessment 1. Workshop participants are asked to come prepared with topics, discussion questions, or case studies throughout this workshop. It will be offered on-site and include overnight accommodations at the Redemptorist Renewal Center in Tucson, AZ.
Workshop registration is open in the online store.
Behavioral Assessment 2
December 2-3 2023, presented by Rev. Raymond P. Carey, Ph.D.
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 while the Winter workshop overnight accommodations are $130 per night.
If you would like to become a 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
This virtual workshop is essential for all new and recently 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 process, vocation promotion, canon law, boundaries, animating vowed membership, relevant resources, and research, along with resiliency and self-care of the vocation director.
Please note this five-day workshop begins on October 9 at 9:30 a.m. and ends on October 13 at 3:30 p.m. Central Daylight Time (CDT) U.S.
There is a 60-minute break from noon - 1:00 p.m. Central Daylight Time (CDT) U.S. Workshop binders will be mailed to participants at least two weeks before the workshop.
Please note: This workshop is not recorded to allow the presenter and participants the opportunity to speak authentically in a learning community. Personal recording is prohibited.
Workshop fees include materials, speaker stipends, and postage.
NRVC member: $ 925 Non-member: $1,387
Become an NRVC member here to save on workshop fees.
Register for this workshop in our online store.
Registrations received after October 1 incur a $100 late fee.
Cancellations for workshops must be received in writing to dinasp@nrvc.net before October 1 to receive a full refund less a $100 processing fee. After October 1, all fees are non-refundable.
Brother Joseph Bach, O.S.F., is a Franciscan Brother of Brooklyn and currently ministers as Director of Vocations for his Congregation. Previously, he ministered in Education as a teacher and administrator on the elementary, secondary, and university levels. He holds a Master of Arts degree in Education from St. Xavier University, a graduate certificate in Franciscan Studies, and completed a Post Master’s Certificate in Spiritual Formation at Boston College. He also studied at the Institute for Black Catholic Studies at Xavier University of Louisiana. Brother Joseph is also a consultant for the Office of Mission, Ministry, and Interfaith Dialogue at St. Francis College, and serves on the Council of Religious for the Diocese of Brooklyn. He is serving as the Hudson Valley Member Area Coordinator.
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 served within her community as vocation director, on the formation committee, and elected congregational leadership team. Sr. Debbie has previous ministerial experience in pastoral care, youth ministry, college campus ministry, and immigration advocacy. She has presented and written on various topics in vocation ministry in Ireland, Canada, and throughout the United States. Sr. Debbie holds a Master of Divinity degree and a Master of Arts degree in Pastoral Studies from Loyola University, Chicago.
Deacon John Eustice, C.S.V. is a Viatorian brother and has been involved in vocation ministry since 2014. He has served has as Coordinator of Vocation Ministry for five years. Br. John has an undergraduate degree in education from UNLV and holds a Master of Arts in Pastoral Studies from Loyola University, Chicago. He has served as a youth and young adult campus minister, a parish pastoral associate in Central America, and most recently, a high school administrator of mission and identity. Br. John is currently a full-time student in the Master of Divinity ordination program at Catholic Theological Union, Chicago.
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, please apply here.
Please read our NRVC terms and conditions for all events and programs.
There were lots of concrete, common sense examples - personal experiences which will stay with me as I journey with discerners. There was such a breadth of experience and a willingness to be vulnerable that it gives me the confidence I can do this. Each presenter was relatable and offered common sense and yet also provided sound advice on paths to avoid difficulties.
–--Sister Mary Jones, O.P.
The wealth of information was incredibly helpful, particularly the concrete examples that the presenters were willing to share. The resources on the ethics of vocation ministry were very helpful. I also really appreciated the attention given to self-care and entering into our own vocation story as a way of better ministering to others.
--Fr. Johnathan Turba, O. Praem.
This workshop was more than I expected. It gave a lot of food for thought and also action steps to move forward with vocation promotion in my diocese. I am forever grateful for the friendship found and the great opportunities to connect with others in the pastoral vineyard. It is with great hope I launch out into the deep. Special thanks to all the presenters and staff who made this possible.
--- Rev. Kenwyn Sylvester, Archdiocese of Port of SpainThe workshop truly exceeded my expectations. I learned a great deal of new knowledge; as a result, I can now implement new resources in my work as a Vocation Minister and then be a better companion for our current and future candidates. The presenters were well prepared, they gave us precise information, and real examples to explain each topic.
–--Sr. Maria Amador, P.C.M.
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
This virtual 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 October 17 at 9:30 a.m. and ends on October 19 at 3:30 p.m. Central Daylight Time (CDT) U.S. There is a 60-minute break from noon - 1:00 p.m. Central Daylight Time (CDT) U.S. Workshop folders will be mailed to participants at least two weeks before the workshop begins.
Please note: This workshop is not recorded to allow the presenter and participants the opportunity to speak authentically in a learning community. Personal recording is prohibited.
Workshop fees include materials, speaker stipends, and postage.
NRVC member: $ 555 Non-member: $ 832
Become an NRVC member here to save on workshop fees.
Register for this workshop in our online store.
Registrations received after October 1 incur a $100 late fee.
Cancellations for workshops must be received in writing to dinasp@nrvc.net before October 1 to receive a full refund less a $100 processing fee. After October 1, all fees are non-refundable.
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.
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, please apply here.
Please read our NRVC terms and conditions for all events and programs.
The most helpful insight for me was the importance of focusing on behavior/data and asking questions that provoke conversation about behavior and not just thoughts or ideas about something.
--Fr. Scott Surrency, O.F.M. Cap.
Fr. Ray is direct, clear, and provides depth through his stories. He tackles tough questions. He is so clear and gives salient examples. I do not have enough superlatives to describe his attributes, skills, and knowledge.
--Sr. Marie Mackey, C.S.J.Father Ray is an excellent presenter. I would attend any of his workshops and recommend him to others. Thank you!
---Brother Timothy Cahill, C.PP.S.The workshop met my expectations in learning how to assess candidates to religious life and how to address sensitive areas as well as in gaining knowledge and a sense of what can raise a "red flag" in my interviews with candidates.
--Sr. Inga Kvassayova, ISMM
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
This virtual workshop is essential for those who promote vocations and want to learn more about young Catholics. This three-day virtual workshop offers participants opportunities to learn and understand nuances of the Gen Z and Alpha generations, ways to bridge generational communication gaps, and how to integrate these learnings and meaningfully engage with young adults in pastoral and vocation ministry contexts.
Please note: This workshop is not recorded to allow the presenter and participants the opportunity to speak authentically in a learning community. Personal recording is prohibited.
Please note this three-day workshop begins on October 24 at 9:30 a.m. and ends on October 26 at 3:30 p.m. Central Daylight Time (CDT) U.S..
There is a 60-minute break from noon - 1:00 p.m. Central Daylight Time (CDT) U.S. Workshop materials will be mailed to participants at least two weeks before the workshop.
Day 1: Understanding and Ministering to Generation Z and the Alpha’s, presented by Dr. Charlotte McCorquodale, Ph.D.
During this session, participants will explore various characteristics, nuances, and spiritual needs of Generation Z and Generation Alpha. As part of our exploration of Generation Alpha, participants will examine the millennial generation and the implications for how they parent the youngest generation. The session will incorporate findings from a recent study on the current generations of leaders leading ministry with the young Church.
Day 2: Increasing Understanding Across Generations: Communication Strategies, presented by Dr. Stephen Carroll, Ph.D.
During this session, participants will learn strategies for creating a safe, respectful environment for people of different generations to share their experiences and develop trust. The session will offer practical strategies for vocation and formation directors to work through resistance due to generational biases and understand modules for collaboration. This workshop will also address social media’s role in generational divisions and present communication strategies to address bias and misunderstanding. Thank you to Saint Luke Institute for partnering with the NRVC in sponsoring a portion of this presentation.
Day 3: How to Meaningfully Engage with our Emerging Generations, presented by Mr. Darius Villalobos
During this session, participants will be able to connect the prior two presentations by primarily exploring practical ways vocation ministers can more meaningfully engage the highly diverse Gen Z and Alpha generations. Participants will particularly consider how the COVID-19 pandemic impacts youth and young adults emerging identities. Incorporating recent ecclesial documents, the emphasis will be on pastoral ministry to and accompanying our youngest generations. Thank you to the National Federation for Catholic Youth Ministry for partnering with the NRVC in sponsoring a portion of this presentation.
Dr. Stephen Carroll, Ph.D., LCPC, a licensed mental health counselor, has been a member of the clinical services department at Saint Luke Institute since 2012. Currently, the director of aftercare services, Dr. Carroll received his doctoral degree in counseling from Loyola University Maryland and a master’s degree in pastoral ministry from Boston College. He served as a visiting professor at Loyola University in the school counseling department and conducted research for Georgetown University’s Woodstock Theological Center. His research on the impact of religion and spirituality on employment attitudes and behaviors has been published in the Journal of Mental Health, Religion, and Culture along with the American Psychological Association’s Handbook of the Psychology of Religion and Spirituality.
Dr. Charlotte McCorquodale, Ph.D. has served the church in several capacities for over 40 years. She completed her Master’s Degree in Religious Education from the University of St. Thomas in Houston, and her doctoral degree from the School of Human Resource Education and Workforce Development at Louisiana State University. Dr. McCorquodale serves as President of Ministry Training Source. MTS is a non-profit organization committed to the research and formation of ministry leaders by providing customized ministry formation solutions using the latest research and technology. Presently, she is an international educator, researcher, and consultant for the fields of lay ecclesial ministry, certification standards and processes, youth ministry, online and eLearning.
Mr. Darius A. Villalobos serves as the Director of Strategic Partnerships and Diversity, Equity, & Inclusion for the National Federation for Catholic Youth Ministry (NFCYM). He previously served in the Archdiocese of Chicago in a variety of ministry roles, including youth ministry, young adult ministry, evangelization, and catechesis. He currently serves on the National Advisory Team for Young Adult Ministry of the United States Conference of Catholic Bishops (USCCB) and as a founding board member of the National Institute for Ministry with Young Adults. He is a graduate of DePaul University where he received his bachelor’s degree in English and Catholic Studies. Mr. Villalobos is a Bernardin Scholar at Catholic Theological Union in the Master of Arts in Intercultural Ministry program.
Workshop fees include materials, speaker stipends, and postage.
NRVC member: $ 555 Non-member: $ 832
Become an NRVC member here to save on workshop fees.
Register for this workshop in our online store.
Registrations received after October 1 incur a $100 late fee.
Cancellations for workshops must be received in writing to dinasp@nrvc.net before October 1 to receive a full refund less a $100 processing fee. After 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, 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.ne
National Vocation Awareness Week (NVAW) is an annual week-long celebration of the Catholic Church in the United States dedicated to promote vocations to ordained ministry and consecrated life through prayer, invitation, and education, and to renew our prayers and support for those who are considering one of these particular vocations.
Observance of Vocation Awareness Week began in 1976 when the U.S. bishops designated the 28th Sunday of the year for the celebration. It was later moved to Feast of the Baptism of the Lord in January. In 2014, after extensive consultation, the Committee on Clergy, Consecrated Life and Vocations moved the observance of National Vocation Awareness Week to November to engage Catholic schools and colleges more effectively in this effort. For social media posts, use either #NVAW or #NationalVocationAwarenessWeek
Fifty Fun Facts about Religious Life handout
Responsibilities of Members for Vocation Ministry Handout
Ten Questions Parents ask about Vocations to Religious Life Brochure
Ten Questions People ask about Vocations to Religious Life Brochure
National Vocation Awareness Week video 1
National Vocation Awareness Week video 2
National Vocation Awareness Week video 3
What you Might not Know about Religious Life
Additional NRVC videos to share on your social media platforms are also available on the NRVC YouTube Channel.
VISION Vocation Network resources: NRVC's VocationNetwork.org offers many vocation-related resources, including, articles, videos, prayers, and quizzes on vocation discernment and religious life.
The USCCB website offers news releases, prayer cards, video clips, and other resources.
Catholic Extension also has infographics and handouts from a previous Vocation Awareness Week.
Global Sisters Report offers lessons for classrooms about Catholic Sisters.
Serra International offers Spark Vocation Tools.
Please send us any plans, photos, or news about your events celebrated during National Vocation Awareness Week. We're happy to spread the good news.
This workshop builds upon the acquired skills of Behavioral Assessment I and is designed as a seminar. Because it is directed to those who have had experience in conducting assessment interviews, all participants must have taken Behavioral Assessment 1. Workshop participants are asked to come prepared with topics, discussion questions, or case studies to consider during this workshop.
Please note this two-day workshop begins on December 2 at 9:00 a.m. and ends on December 3 at 4:00 p.m. Pacific time. Overnight accommodations are included with arrivals after 3 pm on December 1 and departures before 11 am on December 4.
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 December 1 and checking out by 11:00 a.m. on December 4. If you do not need overnight accommodations, please contact margyelan@nrvc.net
NRVC member: $ 760 Non-member: $ 945
Become an NRVC member here to save on workshop fees.
Register for this workshop by clicking here to access our online store.
Registrations received after November 1 incur a $100 late fee.
Cancellations for workshops must be received in writing to dinasp@nrvc.net before November 1 to receive a full refund less a $100 processing fee. After June 30, all fees are non-refundable.
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.
This winter workshop will be offered at the Redemptorist Renewal Center, in Tucson, AZ. The nearest airport is Tucson (TUS) and ground transportation is available with several options. The NRVC has long enjoyed this venue for workshops due to its beautiful dessert grounds, private rooms/bathrooms, wi-fi capacity, and hospitality.
Eucharistic Liturgy for workshop participants will be offered each day at 7:30 am in the Chapel. Each workshop includes communal prayer.
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, please apply here.
Please read our NRVC terms and conditions for all events and programs.
I found this workshop helpful and practical. I found most helpful the practical examples and being able to address real-life situations. I also liked the leadership styles survey. Fr. Ray was attentive to each and every participant and tended to each of our case studies.
--Sr. Bea Tiboldi, O.P.
I found this to be a very helpful follow-up from Behavioral Assessment I. It was useful both in learning new skills/approaches and in affirming evaluative methods I have already been implementing.
--Br. Nicholas Romeo, OFM Conv.
Fr. Ray has a deep love for the Church and its mission, he emphasizes the quality of members, not quantity. This workshop reinforces the need to always give respect to the candidate's dignity and sacred story.
--Sr. Telesia Mulipola, S.M.S.M.For me, it was really an experience of congruence of my vocation ministry with my social work skills. I loved going deeper into the experience of assessments and building on our real-life experiences. I left feeling like I was on the right track and now even more prepared. I really enjoyed this more in-depth exploration of assessment and thinking about the skills needed to live religious life and how one differentiates between areas a person has the potential for growth and change and when it really isn't a good fit.
--Sr. Stephanie Spandl, SSND
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
In 1997, Pope Saint John Paul II instituted a day for women and men in consecrated life. This global celebration is attached to the Feast of the Presentation of the Lord on February 2nd. This Feast is also known as Candlemas Day; the day on which candles are blessed symbolizing Christ who is the light of the world. So too, those in consecrated life are called to reflect the light of Jesus Christ to all peoples.
The celebration of World Day for Consecrated Life is transferred to the following Sunday in order to highlight the gift of consecrated persons for the whole Church.
There are several ways to celebrate World Day for Consecrated Life. Invite sisters, brothers, and priests to publicly renew their vows at Mass, send cards of support to newer entrants, ask to visit a mother house to meet and pray with sisters, brothers, and priests, invite a vocation director to visit your classroom, Board meeting, or faith group to learn more about consecrated life. Send flowers, make a donation to a religious community, or invite someone to discern their vocation to consecrated life!
Letter from Cardinal João Braz de Aviz, prefect of the Congregation for Institutes of Consecrated Life and Societies of Apostolic Life for World Day of Consecrated Life, 2023.
Spark a conversation about religious life using the Abundant Hope prayer cards, Abundant Hope handout, and Abundant Hope video series of newer entrants and senior professed members talking about their lived experiences of intergenerational and intercultural vowed communal life. There are 76 videos of sisters, brothers, and priests sharing abundant hope on the NRVC YouTube Channel. On World Day for Consecrated Life, gather together to talk about unwavering hope, invite others to celebrate, and record your own short videos to post on your social media sites to join this global celebration!
VISION Vocation Network articles on Religious Life
Consecrated Life through the lens of Fratelli Tutti video
Ideas for families and parishes to celebrate WDCL video
Fundamentals from call to charism to community living video
What you might not know about religious life three minute video
Finding joy in religious life three minute video
Religious Life is...three minute video
Selected quotes from Christus Vivit!
USCCB Resources
"This community really, for me, gave me a place and a voice to say, it's okay that you sing in Spanish. It's okay that you're abuelito did this. You had a little altarcito. It's okay. That cultural experience is valid, is valued. That's what attracted me to my community, where I could explore that and celebrate that."
"I was attracted to living in community with other people with the same charism, with the same spirit, with the same hopes for the world with our differences. I wanted to be in community. That was really important to me."
"I think the greatest joy and the greatest challenge is community life, always."
2023 Papal Message for the 27th World Day for Consecrated Life
Your mission is enriched by the charisms of your institutes and societies, the charisms of your founders. In their remarkable variety, they all gave themselves for the edification of the Church and for her mission. All charisms are for the mission, and they are precisely so with the incalculable richness of their variety; so that the Church may bear witness to and proclaim the Gospel to everyone and in every situation.
2022 Papal Homily for the 26th World Day for Consecrated Life
What is our vision of consecrated life? The world often sees it as “a waste”, a relic of the past, something useless. But we, the Christian community, men and women religious, what do we see? Are our eyes turned only inward, yearning for something that no longer exists, or are we capable of a farsighted gaze of faith, one that looks both within and beyond? I am greatly edified when I see older consecrated men and women whose eyes are bright, who continue to smile and in this way give hope to the young. Let us think of all those times when we encountered such persons, and bless God for this. For their eyes are full of hope and openness to the future.
2021 Papal Homily for the 25th World Day for Consecrated Life
2020 Papal Homily for the 24th World Day for Consecrated Life
2019 Papal Homily for the 23rd World Day for Consecrated Life
2018 Papal Homily for the 22nd World Day of Consecrated Life
2017 Papal Homily for the 21st World Day of Consecrated Life
2016 Papal Homily for 20th World Day of Consecrated Life
2015 Papal Homily for 19th World Day of Consecrated Life
2014 Papal Homily for 18th World Day of Consecrated Life
2013 Papal Message for 17th World Day of Consecrated Life
2012 Papal Message for 16th World Day of Consecrated Life
2011 Papal Message for 15th World Day of Consecrated Life
2010 Papal Message for 14th World Day of Consecrated Life
2009 Papal Message for 13th World Day of Consecrated Life
2008 Papal Message for 12th World Day of Consecrated Life
2007 Papal Message for 11th World Day of Consecrated life
2006 Papal Message for 10th World Day of Consecrated Life
2005 Papal Message for 9th World Day of Consecrated Life
2004 Papal Message for 8th World Day of Consecrated Life
2003 Papal Message for 7th World Day of Consecrated Life
2002 Papal Message for 6th World Day of Consecrated Life
2001 Papal Message for 5th World Day of Consecrated Life
2000 Papal Message for 4th World Day of Consecrated Life
1999 Papal Message for 3rd World Day of Consecrated Life
Updated on: 2020-12-31
For those who welcome details about our recent convocation in November 2022, that information is below. We will publish details about our 2024 Convocation later on this website. Stay tuned!
Registration is open for our biennial Convocation hosted by the Pacific Northwest Member Area, in Spokane, WA, November 3-6, 2022.
Convocation brings together the NRVC membership with its trademark excellence in workshops, liturgies, keynote presentations, and networking. This large membership conference also includes the business meeting, awards banquet, and invitations to several organizational collaborators. It provides the opportunity to celebrate the mission and vision of the organization while engaging in professional development and ongoing formation.
The venue selected is the Davenport Grand Hotel, 333 W Spokane Falls Blvd., Spokane, WA. The NRVC has contracted a block of rooms for three days prior and 3 days after Convocation for a reduced rate of $122 per night plus 15% taxes/fees. While it may be cheaper for reservations elsewhere, the NRVC depends upon your reservations to keep the overall rate of the conference affordable. If we do not meet our contracted rooms, the NRVC will be penalized financially. Thank you for reserving your hotel room through NIX.
Check out the four Pre-Convocation workshop choices:
1. Register at the NRVC online store for the conference, and pre-convocation workshops. The late fee is already reflected into the total cost.
2. Reserve your room at the Davenport Grand Hotel directly with NIX here. Please do NOT call the hotel for reservations or use a third party option. If you are sharing a room, each person needs to register with NIX and list the roommate's name. This is to ensure dietary restrictions and accessibility needs. NIX will ensure that the roommates are matched up and only have one hotel room. You will not be double charged. A credit card is needed to make your reservation but you will not be charged until you check in. Register through NIX here.
3. Book your round trip travel to Spokane Airport (GEG) through the airline of your choice: Alaska Airlines, Allegiant Air, American Airlines, Delta Air Lines, Frontier Airlines, Southwest Airlines, or United Airlines. Your ground transportation choices include taxi, Uber, Lyft, or car rental to/from the hotel which is just 10 miles from the airport. Hotel parking is free for overnight guests. For commuters, it is $22 per day.
Call Marge at 773.490.6556 for assistance in registration.
PreConvocation workshops, 9:00 a.m. - 4:30 p.m., November 3, 2022
First time attendee gathering, 4:45 p.m., November 3, 2022
Opening Reception begins at 6:00 p.m., November 3, 2022
Closing Banquet ends at 9:00 p.m., November 5, 2022
Optional bus trip to Idaho: November 6, 2022 - the bus is full.
An opening reception on Thursday evening, lunch on Friday and Saturday, along with the closing awards banquet on Saturday, are all included in your registration fee. There are several restaurants within walking distance from the hotel. There is also a restaurant in the hotel and breakfast available.
NRVC member early registration rate: $500
Non-member early registration rate: $750
Late registration fee after October 7: $100 more
Pre-Convocation Workshop member rate: $180, includes lunch & 2 workshops
Pre-Convocation Workshop non-member rate: $270, includes lunch & 2 workshops
Post Convocation Excursion to Idaho: $125 includes lunch
Hotel overnight rate is $122 plus 15% taxes/fees. This rate is available from October 31 through November 9, 2022. Parking is free for overnight guests; for commuters, it is $25 per day.
All registration fees are non-refundable after October 1, 2022.
If you need financial assistance, the NRVC Misericordia Fund is available to help with Convocation registration fees. For information and applications, please click here.
Ten years ago in 2012, the NRVC published the Keys to the Future video unpacking the 2009 NRVC/CARA Study on Recent Vocations to Religious Life. The NRVC has invited five Keys to the Future video participants to a roundtable conversation with Sr. Miriam Ukeritis, CSJ, one of the researchers from the Future of Religious Orders Study published 30 years ago in 1992. What changes have they experienced in religious life since 1992 and 2012? How do they keep moving forward in hope? This lively roundtable will include time for table conversation for all Convocation participants to ponder aloud what we percieve to be the keys to the future of religious life. Rewind the Future Roundtable presenters can be accessed here.
Sister Barbara Reid, OP, will record her presentation and this will be available to all paid participants.
Sister Barbara E. Reid, O.P. is a Dominican Sister of Grand Rapids, Michigan and holds a Ph.D. in Biblical Studies from The Catholic University of America in Washington, D.C. She is President of Catholic Theological Union and Carroll Stuhlmueller, CP, Distinguished Professor of New Testament Studies. Sr. Barbara has taught at CTU since 1988 and served as Vice President and Academic Dean from 2009-2018. She has led may study tours and retreats in the Holy Lands. Sr. Barbara is author of twelve books and numerous articles, most recently the two-volume commentary on the Gospel of Luke that she co-authored with Prof. Shelly Matthews in the Wisdom Commentary series for which she is also General Editor.
Friday Keynote Presentation: Vocation in the Age of Migration: 'Equipping the Saints' for Mission and Ministry by Father vănThanh Nguyễn, S.V.D.
Father vănThanh Nguyễn, S.V.D., is a missionary priest of the Society of the Divine Word and has served on the Catholic Theological Union faculty since 2005. He is Professor of New Testament Studies and the holder of the Francis X. Ford, M.M., Chair of Catholic Missiology at CTU in Chicago, IL. He is an associate editor of the Journal of the International Association for Mission Studies (2013-present), and the managing editor of the Journal of Association of Asian/North American Theological Educators (2013-present). He has authored several books and numerous articles including, “Acts” in The Jerome Biblical Commentary for the 21st Century, and “What Does the Bible Say About Strangers, Migrants, and Refugees?”
Saturday Keynote Presentation: Borders, Boundaries and Catholic Identity: Three Approaches to Vocation Ministry by Father Ricky Manalo, CSP
Father Ricky Manalo, CSP, is a Paulist priest, composer, theologian, and author. He is the 2018 Pastoral Musician of the Year Award by the National Association of Pastoral Musicians. He studied composition and piano at the Manhattan School of Music; theology at the Washington Theological Union; and liturgy, culture, and sociology at the Graduate Theological Union, Berkeley, CA. He has written articles and books on liturgy, culture, music, and the intersection of sociology and religious practices. Fr. Ricky is a theological consultor for the USCCB and a co-author of numerous statements, including the national pastoral plan for U.S. Asian Pacific Catholics, Encountering Christ in Harmony. Fr. Manalo presents lectures, keynotes, and pastoral workshops, preaches, presides, and gives concerts.
It is the custom of the Host Area to select a local non-profit organization for the collection taken at the closing Mass at Convocation. The Pacific Northwest Member Area has selected Transitions. This organization works to end poverty and homelessness for women and children in Spokane. Catholic Sisters from the Sinsinawa Dominicans, Sisters of the Holy Names, Sisters of Providence and the Sisters of St. Francis of Philadelphia came together in 1995 and combined these services, founding Transitions. At Convocation 2020, 169 NRVC members donated $5200 to the National Black Sisters Conference.
Communal and personal prayer are important values of the NRVC. Each day, Mass will be celebrated along with opportunities for Communal Prayer. A prayer room will be located in the hotel for those who seek a quieter, contemplative space.
Many levels of Sponsorship are available and we welcome your support. Please contact Director of Development, Mr. Phil Loftus at ploftus@nrvc.net if you would like to become a sponsor. Click here to learn more about Convocation 2022 sponsorship opportunities.
Join us for an extra day on Sunday from 9:00 am to 3:00 pm on a chartered bus trip to visit the Historic Silver Valley in Idaho: beautiful Lake Coeur d’Alene, Old Mission State Park, Cataldo Mission, Sacred Encounters (a world class exhibit, telling the story of the Jesuits and Coeur d’Alene Tribe), Lunch at the Snake Pit built in 1880 for fur traders and miners, and the Crystal Gold Mine with unusual crystal formations. We'll be home in plenty of time to enjoy a free evening to relax in downtown Spokane!
This excursion requires some walking, the tour company states: "You walk into the side of the mountain, the ground is flat and it is fine for seniors. All participants in activities and use of facilities contracted for shall be undertaken by each individual at his or her own risk. Group Coordinators shall not be liable for any claims, demands, injuries, damages, actions, or causes of actions whatsoever to person or property arising out of or connected with the use of any services or facilities arranged for or the premise where the same are located, or arising out of acts of active or passive negligence on Group Coordinators, its owners, servants, agents or employees."
Cost: $125 which includes bus transportation, meal, entrance fees, and driver tip. This trip is sold out. If you want to be on the waiting list, please email debbiesscm@nrvc.net
The NRVC will follow any CDC protocols to provide for the wellbeing of each participant. All participants are asked to take an at-home rapid test the day you are leaving to travel to Convocation to be sure you are negative for COVID-19. Because this is a large group event gathering participants from many areas, please bring the following with you to Convocation:
This vivid artwork embodies the 2022 Convocation theme: Call beyond Borders, recognizing God’s endless call to holiness. The swirling waters, gusty wind, and airborne dove speak of the vibrant symbols of the Holy Spirit moving freely beyond borders. The Spirit beckons us to be fearless in following Christ through vowed religious life in community, prayer, and ministry; living interculturally and intergenerationally, across multiple frontiers.
The Convocation Logo was designed by Sister of Providence, Joni Luna, S.P. who integrated her Native American heritage to create this beautiful, colorful Convocation logo. Sister Joni entered her congregation in 2012 and made her perpetual profession in 2021. At Sister Joni’s thirty-day retreat before profession, an Ojibwe elder gave to her the Native American Spirit name, Gidagaamegwandookwe, which translates to spotted feathered woman. Sister Joni is an NRVC member, currently serving as vocation director for her congregation. She participated in the 2021 Summer Institute.
Please read our NRVC terms and conditions for all events and programs.
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