Rome, Italy. From 4th to 8th November 2024, the General Curia of the Claretian Missionaries hosted an intensive five-day seminar on Claretian leadership in service of the Congregation. With the facilitation of Fr Gonzalo Fernández, CMF, the event brought together more than twenty participants, including the General Government and key collaborators. Centered around the theme “United We Serve Better,” this gathering aimed to deepen the sense of belonging and joint commitment to service within the Congregation, foster teamwork, and promote a culture of discernment. The seminar skillfully blended theoretical presentations with practical exercises, both individual and group-based, providing a comprehensive training experience.
Week Overview
On Monday, 4th November, the programme began by exploring the foundations of leadership and its significance within social, ecclesial, and congregational contexts. The day featured introductory activities and reflection exercises designed to prepare participants for the week ahead.
Tuesday, 5th November, focused on analysis and self-awareness, encouraging participants to develop a clear understanding of their own strengths and areas for growth. The day also included an in-depth examination of the “diseases and seeds of life” present within the General Curia.
On Wednesday, 6th November, attendees engaged with strategies for managing transformation processes and analysed key factors critical to serving the Congregation effectively. This day featured sessions that covered fifteen leadership factors and provided tools for addressing challenges with a strategic, operational, and situational perspective.
Thursday, 7th November, was dedicated to communication and relationships, emphasising the development of compassionate and generative communication, as well as conflict management. Participants explored methods for enhancing collaboration and navigating polarities within teams.
Finally, on the last day of the seminar, personal and communal discernment took centre stage. Participants evaluated their learnings from the week and created practical guidelines for implementation in their respective roles, reinforcing a co-responsible leadership approach aligned with the core values of the Congregation.
Outcomes and Perspectives
This seminar provided a valuable opportunity for all members serving the General Curia to come together and share experiences that will strengthen their contributions to the Congregation. The training marked a significant step forward, laying a foundation for the progressive implementation of new tools and insights gained throughout the workshop.
