On Friday, March 13, priests and deacons from across the diocese gathered at the St. Mary Parish in Alexandria for a Clergy Formation Day dedicated to the theme, “Leading Change.” The daylong workshop was led by Matt Reichert, a leadership consultant with the Catholic Leadership Institute and a parishioner of Sts. Peter and Paul in Richmond.
The session was designed to prepare clergy for the next phase of the diocesan All Things New process, which will require navigating the complexities and pastoral challenges that accompany parish change. Reichert guided participants through both the theory and practice of change management, offering frameworks rooted in real parish scenarios.
Throughout the workshop, clergy explored how parishioners experience change, the core principles of parish change management, effective communication strategies, pastoral responses to resistance and how to pace change while measuring progress. The goal, said event organizer Kristi Bivens, was to equip priests and deacons with practical tools they can bring back to their communities as the diocese continues its renewal efforts.
“Our clergy are walking with Area Catholic Communities through a season of real transition, and that requires both courage and compassion,” said Bivens, who serves as the diocesan director of lay and clergy formation. “Today’s formation day was about giving them concrete skills and the confidence to lead well so that every ACC, no matter its circumstances, can move forward with hope.”
Reichert, who works with priests and bishops nationwide, emphasized that implementing change requires a different skill set than planning for it. His presentation encouraged clergy to lead with clarity, patience and pastoral sensitivity.
“The presence of so many of our clergy indicates a deep love for parishioners,” Reichert said. “Our shepherds have a deep desire to accompany all of us through the upcoming changes. I’m grateful for their good questions and engaging conversations.”
Participants said the day offered both encouragement and concrete strategies for the months ahead.
“Matt gave us priests insight on how to walk with parishioners that are struggling with the news of a merged or closed parish,” said Father Derek Wiechmann. “My biggest take away is that in the midst of so much change, it is important for us to have an awareness of where people are at and to accompany them as best as we are able.”
As the diocese moves deeper into the All Things New process, Bivens noted that days like this are essential for strengthening the spiritual, pastoral and practical leadership of clergy.
“Formation that helps priests and deacons understand change and shepherd their people through it ultimately supports healthier parishes, more resilient communities and a more vibrant mission across the diocese.”