Are you interested in taking a deeper dive into the meaning of stewardship within the context of our current day Church? Join the conversation to learn practical ways to introduce stewardship principles within parish life and to keep stewardship formation active throughout the year.

Mark Morrow has been active in the role of stewardship education and development for most of his professional life, having first been involved with the establishment of the stewardship/development office in our diocese. Mark continues his work with parishes and parishioners in our diocese through his role as Executive Director of the Catholic Foundation of West Michigan. Mark and his wife Kathy are members of the Immaculate Heart of Mary Parish community.

Dimension: Evangelization

This presentation will look at the myriad of cultural distractions that are available on a daily basis to both children and adults that generally come into our homes, offices, cars, churches, clubs and events.

The question addressed by both presenters is, “How is all that is available to us experienced as either a Vice or a Virtue and when is one or the other acceptable and when is it not?”

Issues addressed within this presentation include such topics as: Boundaries, Communication, Healthy openness, Moral judgment, Discernment within a variety of settings, Inclusiveness and Exclusiveness, Projection and Introspection.

Sr. Mary Paul Moller, F.S.E., LPC and Sr. Colleen Ann Nagle, F.S.E., LPC have both worked as Licensed Professional Counselors and Educators for over 30 years respectively and are members of the Franciscan Sisters of the Eucharist, Lowell, Michigan.

Dimension: Spirituality

Also offered as B-16

Catholic Social Teaching is a fundamental part of how faith interacts with the world. How can educators impart this rich part of our faith to students? Join me for a student friendly version of Catholic Social Teaching that connects to the daily lives of the middle school crowd.

Jaymie Perry  has been a teacher in the diocese since 1999. She is currently at Immaculate Heart of Mary teaching Junior High    History and Religion.  Jaymie has a BA in Education from CMU and an MA in History Education from GVSU.

Dimension: Evangelization

God’s story comes alive in our stories. Join Father René in exploring four gospel stories that illustrate how Jesus puts the “zing” in God’s mission and how we as his followers are called to testify with a “zing” in bringing the Good News to a world that needs it.

Very Reverend René Constanza is a member of the Missionary Society of St. Paul the Apostle (Paulist Fathers) and the Rector of the Cathedral of Saint Andrew. He also directs the vision and mission of the Catholic Information Center, a Paulist evangelization ministry serving the Cathedral Parish and the Diocese of Grand Rapids.

 Dimension: Evangelization

When Catholics gather for Eucharist, we use our entire bodies to encounter Christ. We cross ourselves, stand, sit, bow, and kneel. This session will lead participants through all the postures and gestures we use at Mass, fostering a deeper appreciation for the sacred liturgy and the ability to teach people of all ages the meaning of our “Catholic calisthenics.”

Father Chris Rouech is pastor of St. Pius X Parish in Grandville. With a Master’s Degree in Liturgical Studies from University of Notre Dame, he served for eight years as interim director of the Diocesan Office for Worship

Dimension: Spirituality 

Also offered as C-10

The Rite of Christian Initiation of Adults expects that “celebrants should make full and intelligent use of the freedom given to them” (RCIA 35) to adapt the rites. But just how far does that freedom extend? This workshop welcomes not just celebrants but all ministry leaders who help prepare the rites to: explore the rationale for adaptation, identify elements that admit of change, determine what characteristics ought to be preserved, and evaluate the benefits of proposed adaptations.

Dr. Aaron Sanders studied theology at the University of Notre Dame and has experience in liturgical ministry at both the parish and diocesan levels. Through his service to the Diocese of Grand Rapids as Director of the Office for Worship he hopes to lead all the faithful to a deeper participation in the sacred mysteries we celebrate.

Dimension: Professional Theology

Also offered as B-7

Pope Francis’ Apostolic Exhortation titled, “Rejoice and Be Glad” explores holiness and challenges all the faithful to witness to the glory of God and to the human person fully alive. Through story, scripture and Pope Francis’ words, YOU will be equipped to grow in holiness and make present God’s reign  every day.

Jeff Andrini, D.Min, is a Master Catechist with the Diocese of Grand Rapids with 30 years of parish experience and currently serves as Director of Faith Formation at St. Patrick-St. Anthony Parish in Grand Haven.

Dimension: Theology

The essential framework from which to witness within a sacramental marriage is that each person clearly knows who they are in relation to God. Only then can a couple live a testimony of a Gospel Marriage. Drawing from the privilege of years of martial therapy with countless couples, Dr. Birkeland will explore key facets of a sacramental marriage and highlight some marriage potholes that occur along the way.

Dr. Peter Birkeland is a Clinical Psychologist, working professionally for 35 years. He received a Ph.D from Michigan State University in 1985 and is currently in private practice in Rockford and Big Rapids specializing in formal psychological assessment, Individual and Marriage therapies, special interest in the integration of Catholic teaching and psychotherapy intervention. Dr. Birkeland is married to Julie and has four children. He is also a Franciscan Apprentice.

Dimension: Theology

Also offered as B-12

It’s not just for Confirmation anymore! The mission of the Church makes clear that service is integral to Catholics. Based on the seven principles of Catholic Social Teaching, this presentation will assist you with easy ideas for service projects that will help learners of all ages embrace service as a way of life.

Nancy Bird has been involved in religious education as a catechist, parish catechetical leader and youth minister. She combines practical experience, creativity and motivational enthusiasm to energize those called to embrace and live their Baptism joyfully.  Presently she serves as Director of Training and Professional Development for RCL Benziger Religion Publishing Company, resides in Tallmadge, Ohio and continues to be a volunteer catechist.

Dimension: Evangelization

Effective communication is critical to all areas of parish life. It is easy to become burdened with trying to keep up with technology and the need to get things done. Pope Francis has consistently called us to something deeper and more fulfilling. Learn how to regain your mission in the effort to get information out of the door. Walk away inspired to speak to the hearts as well as the heads of your parishioners.

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Mike DiCosola resides in Rockford, Michigan, is a parishioner at Our Lady of Consolation Parish and has been an active lay minister at all ages of formation for over 15 years. He speaks nationally on parish communications and evangelization as the director of the myParish App.

Dimension: Evangelization