Last week, 14 new diocesan directors gathered in Baltimore, Maryland, from April 15 to 18, 2024, for the 2024 New Diocesan Directors Institute (NDDI), an annual four-day institute sponsored by the National Federation for Catholic Youth Ministry (NFCYM).
At NDDI, participants engaged in a comprehensive program designed to enhance their roles within their dioceses’. This included fostering relationships with diocesan directors nationwide, gaining insight into the historical context of youth ministry in the United States, and familiarizing themselves with key organizations such as NFCYM, USCCB, and the Catholic Church at the national level.
Throughout the week, participants embarked on a transformative journey, where they engaged in an array of sessions and activities designed to elevate their skills and passion for serving their communities. They engaged in dynamic discussions on vital topics like the national youth ministry landscape, foundations of diocesan ministry, and captivating explorations of the role of the diocesan director.
They were equipped with invaluable insights and tools, experiencing spiritual enrichment through Mass participation and reflective moments, and felt the impact of personalized consultations tailored specifically to their ministry needs.
The week concluded with a visit to the United States Conference of Catholic Bishops (USCCB) in Washington, D.C., where participants gained firsthand insight into the role of USCCB, its advocacy efforts, partnerships with dioceses, and awareness of national trends and issues affecting the Catholic Church and advocated directly for their community with USCCB directors.
We invited participants from the NDDI class of 2024 to offer their perspectives. Here’s what they had to say:
How did you hear about NDDI, and why did you decide to attend?
“I heard about NDDI through several people who have gone through it before and swore by it, saying, “It’s the thing to do, if you can’t go to any other conference, this is the one that gives you what you need to be successful in a very typical and unique way of ministering in the church.” I came to NDDI because there’s a strong need for finding your coworkers in this field. Having a place to come together with other people who are starting out and building those relationships with your community seems invaluable for this work.”
– Michael Armstrong, Director of Youth, Young Adult, and Campus Ministry of the Diocese of Lexington, Kentucky
What did you find most valuable about attending NDDI?
“You got to know me and my needs personally. I felt valued, seen, and heard. The professional networking, problem-solving, and vision setting will bear great fruit. You modeled what I can reproduce. I am better equipped to serve the leaders in my diocese.”
– Angie Poat, Diocesan Youth Minister of the Diocese of Covington, Kentucky
How did your experience at NDDI contribute to your professional growth and readiness to serve in your role?
“As somebody who’s basically brand new in my role, it was really awesome to be here, in a place where everybody could see me in my situation and offer really good counsel that was easily applicable to my unique situation. I really appreciate everybody’s time and dedication from people who are very well versed in the field, building me up as somebody who’s brand new.”
– Simon Elfrink, Associate Director of Youth Ministry of the Diocese of Springfield-Cape Girardeau, Missouri
Attending NDDI provides new diocesan leaders with the tools, support, and connections necessary to succeed in their unique roles within the Church, making it an essential opportunity for anyone involved in ministry.
If you have been in your diocesan director position for three years or less or know someone you know is new to that role, visit nfcym.org/nddi to learn more about 2025 NDDI.
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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."
