As an aid to the ongoing formation of presbyterates, NOCERCC offers Cultivating Unity, jointly with CARA (Center for Applied Research in the Apostolate).  Cultivating Unity is a convocation conducted by NOCERCC on the basis of research CARA develops from inquiries and interviews with the diocesan bishop and his priests.

The Cultivating Unity convocation engages a presbyterate to strengthen those things that unite priests among themselves and with their bishop, as well as identify those intrinsic things which inhibit such unity.  “Too few priests,” “Too much work,” “Different Generational Ecclesiologies,” are three of the top five causes, according to the responses of priests, which inhibit the unity of presbyterates.  These comments come from priests in nearly twenty dioceses that have engaged in the Cultivating Unity process.  Through a CARA survey and facilitated listening sessions, data is compiled to be presented at the convocation.  During the convocation the presbyterate together reviews the findings.  Then, aware of the challenges, the presbyterate, along with the Ordinary, address how best to develop a united Presbyterate.

Click here for more information.  You can also call NOCERCC at 410-978-3676.

2023 National Convention
Stir into Flame the Gift
Celebrating 50 Years

April 24 - 27, 2023
St. Louis, Missouri

The Basic Plan for the Ongoing Formation of Priests was unanimously approved in June 2000 by the U.S. Catholic bishops. The Bishops asked NOCERCC to "carry the principles outlined here forward to implementation."

Click here for The Basic Plan.