Understanding the Lasting Impact of Childhood Trauma and Adverse Childhood Experiences (ACEs) on Candidates for Religious Life

Registration for this one-day workshop will open later this year.

Workshop description

This one-day workshop will explore how childhood trauma and Adverse Childhood Experiences (ACEs) can affect candidates’ readiness for entrance into initial formation and capacity to live in community. Childhood trauma can arise from experiencing physical, emotional, or sexual abuse, neglect, family violence, war, the death of a family member, incarceration, parental separation, addictions, or mental health challenges within the family. ACEs can have life-long effects, increasing the risk of depression, anxiety, PTSD, substance abuse, relationship difficulties, and poor academic or job stability.

While candidates’ stories of trauma can evoke deep sympathy and compassion, it is essential to recognize that the aftereffects of untreated (or insufficiently resolved) trauma may create significant barriers to successful formation. This workshop aims to help vocation ministers develop a compassionate yet discerning approach to working with inquirers and to identify potential ‘red flags’ or ‘yellow flags’ that indicate a candidate may not yet be ready for formation, or may need additional treatment to become ready.

The presenter will guide participants through critical questions to ask serious discerners before they enter the formation process, helping vocation directors assess whether trauma-related issues have been sufficiently addressed. The workshop will offer practical strategies for assisting candidates with trauma histories in seeking the healing they need while avoiding taking on  the role of a therapist.  The session will include a combination of didactic content, case discussions, and small group exercises to deepen understanding and promote practical application. 

Workshop date

Please note this one-day workshop begins on October 20 at 9:00 a.m. and at 3:00 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 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

Workshop fees include materials, speaker stipends, and postage. 

NRVC member: $ 185                                    Non-member: $ 280

Become an NRVC member here to save on workshop fees.   

Late fees

All workshop registrations received after October 1 incur a $100 late fee.   

Cancellations

Cancellations for workshops must be received in writing to dinasp@nrvc.net.  After October 1, all fees are non-refundable. 

Presenter TBA

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 apply here. 

Workshop terms and conditions

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. 

Questions about Fall Institute workshops?

Please contact Sr. Dina Bato, S.P. at dinasp@nrvc.net