The Catholic Information Center (CIC) is a ministry of the Paulist Fathers in the Catholic Diocese of Grand Rapids. We create spaces for encounter, dialogue, and community at the intersection of faith and life.

At the heart of the initiative Formed as Disciples, Prepared for Mission is our Leadership Formation Institute. We believe that relationship is the heart of leadership, and that strong leadership is exercised from the “bottom up” as much as it is exercised from the “top down.” Offered in both English and Spanish, we hope to engage up to 500 lay people over the next five years – as they deepen their relationship with God, make connections with other parishes, and contribute to the flourishing of their communities and the wider world. After participating in the Institute, alumni will implement new ministry projects in their parish and/or civic community, under the direction of their pastor (or parish professional staff).

To support the Institute participants, we have created a consultation process for parish pastors and parish staff. Fostering the mutual relationship with pastors and their professional staff, institute participants will help identify the cultural and social shifts impacting their parish, and using this knowledge, strengthen existing ministry, explore new ministry opportunities, and foster greater insight into how best to organize and conduct these ministry efforts in a post-pandemic society.