A Workshop to reflect on the Future of Sustainability for International Religious Congregations

As we continue to journey together in the synodal process, we have organized a moment of reflection with representatives of Catholic International ongregations and Catholic funding agencies, around the crucial theme of the sustainability of our global mission and the implications of adopting a synodal approach to cooperation and development.

These items will be discussed at the workshop "Building a Network for Mission Development and Sustainability" on September 24th, 2024, at UISG in Rome and Online - zoom.

The workshop will be an opportunity to reflect and explore new avenues for a synodal approach to collaboration and networking among congregations and with funding partners. This initiative stesm from a collaborative effort between UISG, USG and the Good Shepherd International Foundation (GSIF) – with the support of development experts from the Institute of the Blessed Virgin Mary (Loreto Sisters – IBVM), the Sisters of Our Lady of the Missions (RNDM) and the Society of the Divine Word (SVD).
 

A Collective Journey Towards Sustainability

In a world where the challenges and opportunities for mission work are ever-evolving, financial sustainability remains a crucial aspect. International congregations of religious women and men, with their capillary and deeply rooted presence in the most fragile areas of the world, have shown immense dedication to promote a fair and just integral human development, often in the face of growing complexity in accessing financial support for their ministries, locally and internationally. This workshop seeks to address these challenges head-on, providing a platform for sharing insights, lessons learned, different models adopted to do development and fundraising, and resources.

As Cardinal Czerny (Prefect of the Dicastery for Integral Human Development) recently emphasized at a conference organized in Latin America to reflect on how the synodal approach should inform and reform cooperation for development among Catholic organizations, we are called to “envision new forms of aggregation” and supporting “long-term programs” to promote sustainable development. This workshop aims to create a fertile space of dialogue for international congregations to imagine synodal ways to build networks and share resources among our institutes and the organizations that support our missions globally. UISG is honored to host this event as a hub for ecclesiastical dialogue and cooperation. The workshop will gather congregational leaders, mission development directors, treasurers, and other key stakeholders, including donor agencies and representatives of the Catholic agencies and institutions.

The workshop will feature:

• Presentations and Discussions on the principles of synodal approach to cooperation and development and on the implications (challenges and opportunities) for international religious congregations, their development offices and for international donors;
• Round-table Sessions to identify needs and possible solutions, and co-design innovative models of synodal cooperation;
• Networking Opportunities among institutes and with donors to foster new synergies.

The Need for a Synodal Network & Moving forward together

In the past decade, the establishment of offices that would promote development and fundraising has varied significantly among international congregations. This diversity, while a strength, has also led to fragmentation and competition. By coming together, we can transform these individual efforts into a cohesive network, enhancing our collective impact. The workshop will build on the findings from a recent survey on Mission Development and Sustainability, addressed to international congregations’ members of UISG - USG.

These insights will form the basis of our discussions, guiding us towards a more unified and effective approach. This workshop is not just an event but a step towards a more collaborative and sustainable future for our congregations.

It is a call to embrace a synodal approach, fostering unity and shared purpose. Let us seize this moment to strengthen our missions and ensure their longevity.