Last week, 24 new diocesan directors gathered in Baltimore, Maryland, from March 31-April 3, 2025, for the 2025 New Diocesan Directors Institute (NDDI), an uplifting annual event hosted by the National Federation for Catholic Youth Ministry (NFCYM). The four-day gathering offered a wonderful opportunity for participants to learn, reflect, and connect with others, all with the goal of strengthening their roles within the diocese to serve those who minister to young people within the Church.
The event was filled with a mix of inspiring workshops, engaging activities, and prayerful moments, all designed to deepen understanding of the responsibilities and spiritual practices needed for diocesan leadership. Throughout the sessions, participants explored the foundations of ministry with young people, the important role of diocesan directors, and both the internal and external responsibilities of their positions. Personal reflection and peer discussions helped attendees recognize their unique strengths and areas for growth, while offering guidance on how to align their work with their personal gifts.
Wednesday morning, attendees visited the USCCB offices in Washington, D.C., where they participated in advocacy training focused on amplifying the voices of those they serve. Led by USCCB staff, the session included advocacy workshops, small group discussions, and reflections on how diocesan leaders can better consult with and support young people. The NDDI concluded with a commissioning ceremony, where participants were honored for their dedication to ministry and empowered with the tools to continue growing in their leadership and service to the Church.
How did you hear about NDDI, and why did you decide to attend?
“My director saw the invitation and told me I should attend. I had also seen it and was intrigued about the possibility to learn more about my role as a Diocesan Director”
-Zelenda Hodgskin, Diocese of Allentown
“I was invited by a past participant who thoroughly enjoyed it. I also wanted to learn more about my role.”
-Maddie Francisco, Diocese of Youngstown
What did you find most valuable about attending NDDI?
“100% the connections I have made! The information presented has also been current and practical for my ministry.”
-Sr. Guerline Joseph, Diocese of Newark
“Networking and meeting people to “get it” and understand the joys and struggles of the role of Diocesan Director. It was great to hear from others with overlapping challenges. I am excited about other opportunities to connect again and build the community.”
-Jeremy Goebel, Diocese of Evansville
How did your experience at NDDI contribute to your professional growth and readiness to serve in your role?
“It helped me to feel supported in my role. It also helped me learn new things and be inspired by the small group discussions.”
-Viktoria Zolnova, Byzantine Catholic Archeparchy of Pittsburgh
“It made me feel more equipped in my situation within the diocese after hearing what others are doing and going through.”
-Jennifer Martin, Diocese of Cleveland
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 2026 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."
