CMN is pleased to offer its fifth annual Circle Keeper training. This in-person training will take place in Washington, DC, from June 26 to June 29, 2024. 

Circle process is a foundational restorative practice that creates the conditions to build, strengthen and repair relationships through storytelling. In ministry settings, this methodology is well suited for synodal listening, communal discernment, and attending to the wounds of trauma, harm, and conflict. Learn more here >>

This Circle Keeper training is ideal for Catholic leaders who wish to facilitate restorative circles in their parishes, ministries, and communities.

Learning Objectives

Building upon your existing knowledge, experience and skills, participants will: 

  • Experience and contribute to an in-depth circle process and learn protocol for facilitating. 
  • Learn about the cultural, spiritual, and practical roots of circle process, and how it relates to restorative justice and Catholic social teaching. 
  • Become familiar with criteria for discernment to convene and implement circle process in their unique ministerial context. 

Event Details

PART 1: Overview of Restorative Justice Philosophy and Practices | Zoom
Friday, June 14, 2024 | 2-3:30 p.m. ET

PART 2: Circle Keeper training | In-Person

Beginning: Wednesday June 26, 2024 at 12 p.m. ET
End: Saturday, June 29, 2024 at 12 p.m. ET
Location: Stuart Center, 821 Varnum St NE, Washington, DC 20017

PART 3: Adaptations for Virtual Circle Keeping | Zoom
Friday, August 9, 2024 | 2-3:30 p.m. ET

Cost

This training is partially supported by the generosity of an anonymous foundation and typically valued at $500 per person. The cost to register is $350.

  • Included: In-depth training with seasoned circle trainers; simple breakfast and lunch each day of the in-person training; supporting books and materials.
  • Not Included: Transportation to Washington, DC; dinners; lodging. Lodging is available at the Stuart Center at a rate of $70/night. 

Application

Click Here to Apply!

Space is limited! The priority deadline for applications is Friday, April 5, 2024. 

Apply now if you:

  • Are looking for more engagement and experience with restorative justice practices in Catholic ministries;
  • Have some familiarity with restorative justice and are looking to gain facilitation skills. If you are new to restorative justice, we strongly encourage you to register for the virtual Intro to Restorative Justice workshop on May 17;
  • Have pastoral experience and/or skills in accompaniment and deep listening, or the desire to engage in such ministries.

CMN aims to gather a group that is diverse in age, race, and experience. Individuals who are Black, Indigenous, or persons of color; directly impacted by crime and incarceration; and/or under the age of 40, are especially encouraged to apply.

Trainers

Dr. Pamela Taylor’s career is at the intersection of education, social and human services, and criminal justice. She holds a Ph.D. in Education/Curriculum and Instruction, and is Professor Emerita in the College of Education at Seattle University. Pamela has extensively studied conflict resolution, mediation, and peacemaking circle traditions in North America, and has enjoyed keeping innumerable circles, especially on topics related to social justice, leadership, and racial healing. She is also a trainer and circle keeper for the Archdiocese of Seattle. Pamela leads The Circle Works initiative in Seattle, WA, and is a consulting affiliate at the Peacemaking and Healing Circle Initiative with the Center for Ethical Leadership.

Sr. Janet Ryan, OSF is a Franciscan sister of Clinton, Iowa and is originally from Boston. She has been ministering at Precious Blood Ministry of Reconciliation since 2014. She assists adults in earning their high school diploma, offers peace circles in the community and circle trainings at PBMR. Janet has a Communications degree from UConn and a Master's in Pastoral Ministry from St. John's Seminary in Boston. She is passionate about living and promoting Nonviolence and Restorative Justice.

For questions about this event please contact Lucie Martinot-Lagarde at lucie@catholicsmobilizing.org.