Community Support

College for Congregational Development

Rooted in Baptism. Growing Together in Faith and Leadership. Branching Out into the World.

About the Program

The College for Congregational Development (CCD) is a spiritually grounded training program designed for teams of lay and clergy leaders seeking to strengthen their leadership skills and foster health and vitality within their congregations.

Rooted in the Episcopal tradition and informed by the best of congregational and organizational development, the College elevates and equips congregations to become more faithful, effective, and healthy communities of faith.

Founded in 2009 by the Diocese of Olympia and launched in the Episcopal Diocese of New York in 2023, CCD has already become a catalyst for renewal across the diocese, equipping leaders and inspiring new ways of being church.

Leadership in the Diocese of New York

In the Diocese of New York, CCD is led by The Rev. Canon Víctor Conrado, Regional Canon for New York City and Director of Congregational Development and the College for Congregational Development. Canon Conrado oversees day-to-day operations, training, and support.

Upcoming Sessions

You only need to attend one session each year. Please choose the format and time that best fits your schedule.

Session 1: Six by One (Year A)

  • Begins: Saturday, October 26, 2025
  • Location: Church of the Intercession, 550 155th Street, New York, NY 10032
  • Time: 9:00 AM – 3:00 PM (Monthly on Saturdays)
  • Capacity: 20 participants
  • Registration opens: Tuesday, September 2, 2025

Session 2: Weeklong Intensive (Year B)

  • Dates: June 14–19, 2026
  • Location: Stony Point Center, 17 Cricketown Rd, Stony Point, NY 10980
  • Capacity: 45 participants
  • Registration opens for returning participants: January 2026
  • Registration opens for new participants: February 2026

Session 3: Weeklong Intensive (Year A)

  • Dates: July 12–17, 2026
  • Location: Thomas Berry Place, 86-45 Edgerton Blvd, Jamaica, NY 11432
  • Capacity: 45 participants
  • Registration opens for returning participants: January 2026
  • Registration opens for new participants: February 2026

  • Who Should Participate

    CCD welcomes congregations of all sizes, locations, and conditions, from those facing significant challenges to those seeking renewed focus or growth. Each congregation brings a unique story and context. CCD offers tools, practices, and spiritual insight to help parishes discern their identity and live more fully into God’s call.

    This program is especially recommended for:

    • Parishes that are undergoing transition or seeking revitalization.
    • Congregations committed to strategic growth and sustainability.
    • Clergy and lay teams ready to invest in faithful, transformative leadership.

  • What to Expect

    CCD is offered in two formats:

    • Weeklong Format

    Two intensive, residential sessions over two consecutive summers (Sunday afternoon to Friday noon).

    • Six by One Format

    One Saturday per month (9:00 AM – 3:00 PM) for six months.

  • Tuition and Financial Support

    The Bishop’s Office covers the full cost of tuition, room, and board for participants from the Diocese of New York, thanks to the generous support of Lilly Endowment Inc. The total value per person is $1,800, and congregations are asked to contribute $150 per participant. Scholarships are available, and no one will be turned away due to financial need.

  • What's Included

    Your registration includes:

    • Tuition and training materials
    • Room and board (weeklong sessions)
    • Spiritual formation and worship
    • A vibrant, collaborative learning experience

    Congregational teams of two or more are encouraged, though individual participants are welcome following a conversation with the Director.

Join Us!

If your parish is discerning participation in CCD, we invite you to begin a conversation with our office. We’ll work with you to ensure your team is well-prepared to engage in this transformative experience.

The Rev. Canon Víctor Conrado

Canon for New York City; Director for Congregational Development

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