PDCARE FALL PROFESSIONAL DEVELOPMENT DAY 

Transforming the Culture of Parish Religious Education for Mission 

Thursday, September 24, 2026 

Matthew F. Manion, PhD
Presenter 

St. Helena Parish, Empress Room
1489 Dekalb Pike, Blue Bell, PA 19422

Religious education programs do not change simply by adopting new curricula or teaching methods—they change when parish leaders intentionally shape the culture that guides how faith is taught, lived, and shared. Drawing on insights from organizational culture and change management, this workshop will help parish religious education leaders understand how lasting transformation occurs. Participants will explore practical strategies for moving beyond a textbook-centered model of religious instruction toward a culture of evangelization, accompaniment, and discipleship that unites the hearts and minds of all with Jesus Christ.

 

Schedule:

   8:30 AM          Registration

   9:00 AM          Holy Mass 
                           Rev. Stephen P. DeLacy, Vicar for Faith Formation

   9:35 AM          Hospitality and Light Refreshments

 10:00 AM          Welcome & Speaker Introduction
                           Sr. Marie Garman, IHM, PDCARE President

 10:05 AM          First Presentation - Matthew Manion, PhD
                          Transforming the Culture of Parish Religious                                                       Education for Mission

 12:00 PM           Lunch

   1:00 PM           Second Presentation & Q&A - Matthew Manion,                                PhD
                          Transforming the Culture of Parish Religious                                                       Education for Mission

   2:30 PM           Wrap up and Closing Prayer
                            Christine Flack, PDCARE Vice-President

Registration fee:
PDCARE Members: $45.00
Non-members: $55.00

No-Refund Policy:
Please note that no refunds will be issued after September 5, 2025. By submitting this registration form, you acknowledge and agree to this policy.

Picture Policy:
By registering for this event, you grant us permission to capture and use photos or videos of you in our communication channels, including social media, promotional materials, and future event outreach.