Central Valley IAF: Recognizing the Stranger Training

Article by: Timothy McManus, Central Valley IAF

On February 3rd-4th, Central Valley IAF hosted a training in partnership with the Diocese of Fresno. The purpose was to equip parish leaders with the tools to help their parishes live out the social and community mission of the Catholic Church. Nearly 100 leaders from more than 20 parishes participated, traveling to the St. Paul Catholic Newman Center from every region of the Diocese. On Friday night, Bishop Brennan opened the training with a reflection on the institution of the Eucharist, reminding participants that the closing of our Mass (“Ite, missa est!”) commands us to go forth into the world and live out the Gospel. He reminded the trainees that this work will sometimes be difficult, there will be setbacks and that we will have to be willing to engage in the public sphere to do this but the Eucharist gives us what we need to brave this and press forward.

Central Valley IAF is part of the Industrial Areas Foundation (IAF) national network, the country’s oldest and largest network of broad-based community organizations. IAF trainers from across the country traveled into Fresno for the weekend to teach our local leaders about their Baptismal responsibility (as priest, prophet and king) to help the Church in its mission. And they trained participants in the tools of listening and identifying new leaders to build a Church capable of going forth and meeting people along their journeys. Participants in the training are planning two follow-up meetings – one in Fresno and another in Delano – to develop their next steps.

Central Valley IAF is a newer organization in the region, working with parishes as well as other congregations and community-based institutions interested in working together to address common concerns. Through leadership development at the local level, Central Valley IAF helps our parishes and communities better navigate the challenges facing our families. If your parish would be interested in learning more, please contact [email protected].