Dear Friends,

 

After much prayer, discussion, and careful evaluation, we have made the difficult decision to cancel the 2026 Catholic Leadership Conference.

 

This was not a decision we reached lightly. Despite our efforts and the support of friends like you, initial registration numbers were not strong. With deposit deadlines looming, we simply could not move forward responsibly with the event as planned.

 

A changing landscape.

 

For many years, the Catholic Leadership Conference has served as a place where faithful leaders could gather to collaborate, share ideas, and strengthen one another in service to the Church. We remain deeply grateful for everyone who has participated in and supported that mission.

 

At the same time, it has become increasingly clear that the world has changed. Since COVID, the way organizations meet, network, and invest their time and resources has evolved significantly. The landscape of Catholic apostolates and ministries has changed as well, bringing new challenges, opportunities, and expectations.

 

But we still have a voice. We still have a purpose!

 

Rather than simply pressing ahead with “business as usual,” we are taking this opportunity to step back and reevaluate the future of the Catholic Leadership Conference. We believe that if CLC is to continue, it should do so in a way that genuinely serves the needs of today’s Catholic leaders and organizations.

 

That’s where you come in.

 

We would value your candid feedback as we consider what comes next. If the Catholic Leadership Conference were to really serve leaders and the Church, what would that look like?

 

• Is the annual in-person gathering, as we have done in the past, worthwhile?

• What topics, issues, or conversations ought to be considered?

• Would you be interested in an open-forum podcast where all members could participate (pitching books and projects, debating current issues facing the country, the world, and the Church)?

• Should the focus shift toward leadership formation, collaboration among apostolates, fundraising, communications, or another area?

• Would virtual programming or hybrid events be more valuable?

• What would make participation worthwhile for you and your organization?

 

Most importantly, what unmet need within the Church could the Catholic Leadership Conference help address?

 

These questions and more are on the attached survey, which we ask that you complete and return.

 

Your insights will play an important role in determining how we move forward. Our goal is not simply to preserve an event, but to build something that equips and inspires Catholic leaders to meet the challenges of our time with faith, excellence, and missionary zeal.

 

Thank you for your past support, your prayers, and your honest feedback. We look forward to hearing your ideas as we discern the next chapter of the Catholic Leadership Conference.

 

In Christ,

The Catholic Leadership Conference Board