National Association of Vocation and Formation Directors (NAVFD)

The National Association of Vocation and Formation Directors (NAVFD) is a Canadian nonprofit organisation dedicated to fostering a culture of vocation within the Catholic Church in Canada. Its members include Vocation and Formation Directors, congregational leadership, and others committed to promoting vocations.

Mission

The NAVFD's mission is rooted in the belief that every Christian, through baptism, is empowered to identify and respond to their divine mission. The organization aims to support this mission by developing resources and networks that facilitate understanding and engagement with various expressions of faith and service.

Activities and Initiatives

• Vocations Website: NAVFD maintains a national vocations website, which serves as a central resource for information on vocations and formation.
• Research and Surveys: The organization has launched comprehensive national surveys to study the state of religious vocations in Canada, gathering data on the demographics and motivations of those entering religious life.
• Conferences and Events: NAVFD organizes bi-annual conferences that provide a platform for vocation ministers to engage in discussions and share experiences.
• Membership Benefits: Members benefit from greater community exposure, access to vocational resources, monthly newsletters, and discounts on conference participation.

Leadership

The organization is overseen by a Board of Directors with members from across Canada. It also has a part-time paid Executive Director. As of recent data, the Executive Director was Patti Walsh Connolly, and the President of the Board was Sr. Mary Rowell, CSJ.

Membership

Membership in NAVFD includes individuals and organizations dedicated to fostering vocation culture. Each congregation, diocese, or organization can register one primary member, with additional members from the same entity eligible at a reduced fee. Memberships offer various benefits, including participation in teleconference calls and access to vocational resources.

Registration

The organization is registered as a Canadian nonprofit with a Business Registration Number of 840265862RR0001.

[1] https://vocations.ca/national_association_of_vocation_and_formation_directors/ [2] https://navfd.info [3] https://navfd.info/membership/ [4] https://relforcon.org/resource/national-association-vocation-and-formation-directors-canadian [5] https://omilacombe.ca/the-national-association-of-vocation-formation-directors-navfd/