1. To update ministries; to help professionalize ourselves and keep up with the latest issues in religious education.

2. To have an experience of the scope of total youth leadership in the diocese as catechetical leaders, principals, and youth ministers joined with the bishop, pastors, and pastoral leaders for education, worship and fellowship.

3. To provide a networking system with others in the field and to feel their support.

4. To have some time for faith renewal; to provide some time out just "to be" before our ministries begin anew.

Participation at this Leadership Institute is very important since it provides an opportunity for parish leaders to gain knowledge regarding new diocesan directives and initiatives as well as awareness of collaborative efforts at both the deanery and diocesan levels. Grant monies are available for those whose parishes cannot afford to pay the registration fee. Apply to Donna Therkelsen.

Retreat
CYSS sponsors an annual retreat for catechetical leaders, youth leaders, and principals of the diocese as part of the Leadership Institute.

First and Second Year Catechetical Leader Formation
Each year the Religious Education staff of CYSS provides a training program for new catechetical leaders. Newer Catechetical Leaders are asked to call Joan Prater, at 244-6711 or 800-926-8277 to register for this program.

Second Year Principal Formation
Each year the Religious Education staff of CYSS provides a training program for second-year principals. This formation program helps principals develop their skills as spiritual leaders of their schools.

Visitation
The Religious Education staff of CYSS regularly visits parishes with religious education programs. These visits are times to listen to the concerns of the catechetical leader and to provide assistance where needed.