National Assembly
August 1-3, 2023 | Kansas City, MO
This year's theme focuses on the twin topics of charism and community. While these terms are familiar, they both mask complex issues within religious life. For charism—what exactly do we mean by it? How can its fullness be lived out? How can it be adapted to new circumstances a community may face?
Similarly, although "community" is widely discussed, significant contemporary issues remain—how can communities navigate increasingly intercultural and intergenerational common life, as well as issues that can affect perseverance, such as loneliness, wellness problems, and polarization within our communities?
Our conversations during the National Assembly will be framed by the results of a CARA study (commissioned by CMSM) of male religious communities from the perspective of their leaders.
Join fellow leaders in Kansas City, MO, along with experts who will help us engage in conversation about these topics.
For more information, visit our National Assembly website or contact us.
This is a full-day program, taking place on Monday, July 31. The sexual abuse of minors has garnered a strong response from religious communities over the past 20 years, culminating in a distinct safeguarding ministry, exemplified by adherence to the Praesidium Accreditation Standards and a commitment to creating and sustaining cultures of safety within our religious communities.Today, however, safeguarding ministry is facing new challenges, spurred in part by recent lookback laws on sexual harassment of adults, social movements like "me too," and an increasing awareness of the necessity of maintaining good boundaries. Join us for this day-long program examining the process and best practices for addressing adult misconduct in your community.
This is a half-day program, taking place during the afternoon on Thursday, August 3.This post-assembly will examine how and when leaders should engage partners in managing communal commitments in ministries, pastoral planning, internal planning, sponsored institutions, and governance of the community. When is it a good idea to call on lay associates or others to manage a sponsored ministry or ask for their input on governance issues? How can finance or management experts help leaders with their administrative burdens, and what issues can arise from such an arrangement? Join a lineup of leaders, partners, and experts for an exploration of these issues.
