Orientation Program for New Vocation Directors

This workshop is offered online July 12-16, 2021 or onsite October 12-16, 2021

Please note Summer Institute registration closed on June 30.

This workshop is intended for new and recently appointed vocation directors. Its goal is to provide participants with the skills, context, theory, challenges and practicalities of contemporary vocation ministry. Topics will include foundational elements of vocation ministry; assessment of inquirers and discerners; application and admission process; vocation promotion, ethics and boundaries, resiliency and self-care of the vocation director.

This online workshop will keep your attention with five dynamic presenters covering over 70 topics for new vocation ministers. Participant networking is encouraged throughout the workshop with small group breakout sessions.  

Please note this five day workshop begins each day at 9:30 a.m. and ends at 3:30 p.m. Central time. There are 2 scheduled breaks along with a 60 minute lunch from noon to 1:00 p.m. (CT) to avoid screen fatigue. 

Workshop fees

NRVC member: $750                                      Non-member: $1125

Become an NRVC member to save on workshop fees.   

Cancellations

Cancellations for workshops must be received in writing to debbiesscm@nrvc.net before June 30 to receive a full refund less a $100 processing fee. After June 30, all fees are non refundable. 

Presenters:

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 10 years as vocation director for her community and is currently serving on her congregational leadership team. Sr. Debbie has previous 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).  

Sister Charlene Herincxk, S.S.M.O. currently serves as the NRVC Director of Membership and previously served as the NRVC Coordinator of Programs and Projects from 1999-2005. A Sister of St. Mary of Oregon, her ministry experience includes middle and high school teacher, school administrator, community vocation director, assistant Archdiocesan vocation director, and community leadership. She holds a Master of Arts in Private School Administration (University of San Francisco) and a Master of Education (University of Portland). She was recognized with a Lifetime NRVC Membership in 2014. 

Father Adam MacDonald, S.V.D. is a native of Flint, Michigan and ordained for the Society of the Divine Word.  Since 2011, Fr. Adam has served as a Vocation Director for his congregation. He previously served in the Philippines, on the Provincial Council for the Chicago Province and as Vice-Provincial. Fr. Adam holds a Master of Divinity degree (Catholic Theological Union, Chicago) and a Certificate in Spiritual Direction from the Center for Spiritual Development, California. He currently serves on the NRVC National Board executive committee and has previously served on the NRVC Editorial Board and the Vocation Ambassador Design team. 

Brother Chris Patiño, FSC is a De La Salle Christian Brother and currently serves as Director of Vocation Ministry for the Christian Brothers’ U.S.A. western province. He previously served in education and on his Provincial Council. Br. Chris holds an undergraduate degree in Religious Studies (University of Arizona) and a Master of Arts in Pastoral Studies (Loyola University, Chicago).  In addition to his responsibilities as vocation director, he serves on the Board of Trustees of De La Salle North Catholic High School in Portland, the Religious Brothers Conference Board, and as NRVC West Coast Member Area Co-coordinator.

Sister Minnette Welding, I.H.M. is a Sister, Servant of the Immaculate Heart of Mary, Scranton, PA, and ministers as the Director of Vocations for her IHM Congregation. She has spent her religious life ministering to adolescents and young adults in college campus ministry, secondary education and parish youth/young adult ministry as well as Diocesan vocation ministry. She is also a spiritual director and retreat director. Sister has a Master of Arts Degree in Pastoral Care and Counseling from Neumann University concentrating in Spiritual Direction and a Master of Science Degree from Fordham University in Youth and Young Adult Ministry/Religious Education.

Financial assistance available

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 contact srcharleneh@nrvc.net  for an application.

Workshop terms and conditions

Please read our NRVC terms and conditions for all events and programs.

I found the whole program very helpful. I appreciated the different perspectives from the speakers and the variety of examples provided. Learning about setting boundaries and the specifics about psychological testing and assessment especially helpful. I found all the presenters competent and engaging. Thank You! I didn't have a clue as to what I didn't know - things vital to my role as vocation director. ​

–--Sister Vickie Griner, osc

A great experience; it came at a perfect time since I’ve been at this for a few months and a new academic year is starting soon. There’s alot to digest, but the manual and on-line resources are a Godsend. THANK YOU!

–Brother Larry Schatz, F.S.C..

Being a layperson and new to vocation ministry, I found all aspects of the program helpful. The materials and small group conversation gave me a better understanding of vowed life and the complex role of the vocation director. I was pleasantly surprised at how effective and enjoyable this online format can be. I’ve always preferred traditional classroom settings but after participating in this program I wouldn’t hesitate to sign up for this format again. It was so well done. This workshop definitely exceeded my expectations. Thank you! ​

–Ms. Kathryn Davis for the Congregation of Bon Secours.

Workshops are designed from the NRVC three-component 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 read the terms and conditions of all NRVC programs and events.