Last week, a group of 22 new diocesan directors gathered in Washington DC to engage in community and learn more about their role as ministry leaders.
At NDDI, participants had the opportunity to build relationships with diocesan directors from around the country, understand the historical context of youth ministry in the United States, and receive consultation and support in developing a strategic plan for diocesan ministry. Participants also engaged in the opportunity to advocate for the needs of young people with church leaders, learning tools to ensure longevity in diocesan ministry and much more.
My week at NDDI has made a profound impact. I have a wonderful network of like-minded colleagues who understand my struggles. I received a great number of resources and ideas from the ministry professionals of E.Q. Saints, Life Teen, Project YM and Marathon Youth Ministry. It was a week I’ll never forget!
The New Diocesan Directors Institute is an annual four-day institute sponsored by the National Federation for Catholic Youth Ministry (NFCYM) and offered for new diocesan leaders who have responsibility for middle school, high school, or young adult ministry. Designed for professionals who’ve served in diocesan ministry for less than five years.
I walked away from the NDDI experience with a greater sense of my role and influence in the wider institutional Church. The day at the USCCB highlighted for me our responsibility as diocesan leaders to serve as a two-way bridge between the youth & catechetical ministers "in the trenches" and the USCCB staff working on the national level.
To be able to voice concerns, hear how others are changing and adapting, and to bring home some ideas to implement within my own community and resources for our youth ministers is such a gift to my ministry and my position. I'd highly recommend NDDI to any new director trying to bring real, lasting change to their diocese and their youth ministry.
The New Diocesan Director Institute allows time for relationships to foster between directors, Catholic sponsors, the NFCYM team and members of the USCCB. Participants enjoyed access to those with gifts in specialty areas like Robert Feduccia and Michael Marchand. Though I have been Catholic my entire life, my knowledge of the USCCB was increased exponentially through the department fair. Finally, the immediate feedback at the advocacy session allowed for access to an audience that is rare and valued.
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Pastoral Juvenil Hispana Coordinator,
Diocese of Austin
Diocesan Member
"NFCYM has accompanied me in reaching out to like minded professionals to better provide service (ministry) to adolescents. NFCYM has allowed me to network and grow professionally.
'Youth as Protagonists' has been essential to Pastoral Juvenil Hispana in the Diocese of Austin."
Youth Minister, St. Christopher Church
Associate Member
"The various resources have helped me keep our program exciting and vibrant. NFCYM has provided me with shared information via webinars, workshops, conferences, outreach, and opportunities that are very informative to help make my ministry successful.
NFCYM is an open forum for me to seek material, guidance and support in keeping the youth ministry program successful."
