Listening, leading, living the call: A day of spiritual leadership
By Kristine Rilling06/24/2025
Catholic school leaders from across the Diocese of Erie gathered for an afternoon rooted in prayer, reflection and purpose for their annual Catholic School Leadership Conference. The event began with a 1 p.m. Mass at St. Francis Xavier Parish, McKean, setting a reverent tone for the day. Following Mass, participants enjoyed a brief break with snacks before diving into a thought-provoking presentation on how to hear and respond to God’s voice.
The session featured clips from The Chosen, including scenes of Jesus calling Nathaniel and forgiving Mary Magdalene, paired with Scripture such as 1 Kings 19: 11-13. These powerful visuals and texts helped participants consider how God speaks – not through noise or spectacle, but often in silence, stillness and subtle encounters. A handout highlighting biblical examples of divine encounters encouraged personal reflection.
Attendees were then invited to reflect on how they hear God in their own lives, followed by small group discussions focused on prayer styles, spiritual tools and shared experiences of God’s voice. Leaders were challenged to move from listening to action, considering how God is calling them to lead within their own school communities.
Jim Gallagher, Superintendent of Catholic Schools, shared, “This time together is not just about renewal. It’s about rediscovering our call to serve with purpose. We lead by listening to God and to one another.”
The day concluded with a joyful shift into fellowship and fun. At Nick’s Place in Edinboro, leaders connected over picnic fare and enjoyed games like mini golf, go-karts and bumper boats. Laughter around the fire reminded everyone of the wisdom in Ecclesiastes 3:1: “There is an appointed time for everything, and a time for every affair under the heavens.”
This gathering set the stage for the days ahead: recharging leaders spiritually while reinforcing their mission to serve with courage, humility and joy.
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