"I dream of a "missionary option," that is, a missionary impulse capable of transforming everything so that the Church’s customs, ways of doing things, times and schedules, language and structures can be suitably channeled for the evangelization of today’s world rather than for her self-preservation." Evangelii Gaudium 27
Men and women religious serve the call to missionary discipleship in a decisive way. This session will explore how to help people hear the call of Christ for their life and vocation. Particular emphasis will be placed on requiring passionate missionary disciple formators in formation programs.
Most Rev. Michael F. Burbidge is the bishop of Arlington. Ordained a priest of the Archdiocese of Philadelphia in 1984, he was appointed bishop of Raleigh in 2006.
Executive Director, Leadership Conference of Women Religious (LCWR)
Sr. Joan Marie Steadman, CSC, a member of the Sisters of the Holy Cross, serves in ministry as executive director of the Leadership Conference of Women Religious (LCWR).
Joseph Cardinal Tobin, CSsR, is the cardinal archbishop of Newark in New Jersey, appointed by Pope Francis in 2016. He was previously the archbishop of Indianapolis from 2012 to 2016. Cardinal Tobin professed vows as a member of the Redemptorists in 1973 and was ordained in 1978... Read More →
Coordinator, Council of Major Superiors of Women Religious
Sr. Marie Bernadette Thompson, OP, is a professed sister of the Dominican Sisters of St. Cecilia and the coordinator of the Council of Major Superiors of Women Religious.
