Leading a religious community is a daunting task. It is also a blessed one. Being chosen by one’s brothers to lead is a call to spiritual fortitude, patient endurance, compassionate care, and co-responsible decision-making. We may innately or through experience be able to do some of these things well. Ongoing

Almost twenty years ago, CMSM made very clear commitments to what was then called the protection of minors and what is now called safeguarding. It is important to underscore that we as men religious are committed to safeguarding, we do not simply comply. We need to be in the forefront

The 2022 National Assembly in Buffalo, New York, provided an important time for our members to meet both in person and online focusing on the theme “One in the Mission of Christ: Co-Responsibility in Religious Leadership.” Our excellent speakers and panelists helped us reflect theologically, ecclesiologically, and practically. The membership

What is the most challenging issue that you are addressing currently? You could probably answer this question very quickly. Leaders of religious communities are always dealing with various challenging issues. These difficulties often leave little time for deeper discussion and discernment. Such practices, along with prayer, are important to incorporate

For a leader of a religious community, each day offers a new set of challenges. Some of these can be addressed quickly, while others will take time, patience, and more than a little bit of prayer. Sometimes we might thrive on tackling issues. At other times, we may find it

From the Executive Director With so many tragic events in our nation and world, it can be difficult to live in hope. Yet, that is exactly what we are called to do, especially in these days following Pentecost. Our hope is based on the belief that everything is not on

From the Executive Director During this part of the Easter season, we find the community of disciples in the Upper Room and elsewhere experiencing appearances of the Risen Christ. They are coming closer to being sent on mission. Before that happens, though, they deepen their encounter with Jesus in a

From the Executive Director  Hope Lives! Christ is Risen, Alleluia, Alleluia! In the midst of the Octave of Easter, we at CMSM wish you, Blessed Easter! If you find this greeting effusive, it is meant to be. We place our hope not in ourselves, but in the Risen One. Leaders

From the Executive Director Crises can cause unity. When a tragedy occurs, it is often a time when there is greater unity in a religious community. We see flashes of it at the moment, as many unite with brothers and sisters in Ukraine. Crises pass, though, “life moves on,” and

From the Executive Director Good formation of leaders of religious communities is not focused on simply building skills or knowing the latest and greatest management techniques. Fruitful leadership formation is focused on relationships – with Christ and with others. That may seem obvious, but often we do not step back