December 4, 2023
Dear Friend of the Conference,
As we begin our Advent journey, it seems appropriate to focus on hope and gratitude. We balance this time of waiting with reflection on the gifts and blessings that are abundant. We are grateful to all our members and friends for their support of this ministry through the sharing of time, talent, and treasure.
Hope focuses us on the dynamic impulse of a creative God. In response, we listen and discern what is emerging within religious life and the church to ensure that we provide relevant and meaningful programs and resources. We believe that initial and ongoing formation is foundational for the flourishing of religious life. The Conference is a leader in innovation within these shifting structures. We support two programs, for example, that are laying the foundation for the inter-congregational future of religious life: the Together program and the InterCongregational Collaborative Novitiate (ICCN). In addition, our long-standing ForMission program is continually revitalized to offer the most current training for formators.
As we listen for the Spirit’s lead, we are aware of the many changes happening within religious life. We believe that “we can transmit a bit of hope” for what this future will be while tending to the realities of today. It is from this space of hope that we bring our annual appeal to you.
Through this appeal we hope to raise support for our many programs and initiatives. We invite you to make a financial contribution by clicking below.
<< Click to make a gift to support the future of religious life! >>
As an example of what this appeal will support, we offer the following:
- $100 – support an annual planning retreat for RFC staff
- $250 – support the translation of documents into Spanish for the Resources Portal
- $500 – support communication efforts to share events and resources
- $1,000 – support webinars and speaker stipends
- $2,000 – support the creation of a development plan to ensure sustainability
- $5,000 – support participant travel to the Life Commitment program
Thank you for the trust you place in us. We are deeply grateful for your support and look forward to continued collaboration.
As we take time to pause and reflect, let us gaze toward the future with courageous hope!
Advent blessings,
Dr. Ryan J. Hoffmann, DMin
Co-Executive Director
Religious Formation Conference
Sr. Nancy Gerth, SCN
Sisters of Charity of Nazareth
Co-Chair, Board of Directors
Bro. Wayne Fitzpatrick, MM
Maryknoll Fathers and Brothers
Co-Chair, Board of Directors