Into the deep
Forming lay leaders
The Catholic Leadership Foundation, inspired by the Gospel of Luke (5:1-11), invites you to embark on a transformative journey Into the Deep. This ministry development and formation program is designed to deepen your relationship with Jesus Christ and the Church and renew you as a missionary disciple called to lead and serve. The 2026-7 Program is now available.
What is ‘Into the Deep’?
Into the Deep is an extended leadership formation program that offers:
Retreat experiences
Mentoring
The Ignatian First Spiritual Exercises
Seminars and book club
Praying the Awareness Examen and Lectio Divina
Pilgrimage to France. (Click here for 2026 Brochure)
Small group spiritual conversations
Mission enhancement project
These elements are woven together across five phases and tailored for individuals in consideration of their location and life and work context. The Program spans from September each year to June the following year.
Who should apply?
Into the Deep is ideal for Catholic leaders and those engaged at the governance level of Catholic organisations in all sectors of the Church's life and mission.
We encourage nominations of individuals who:
Are Catholics seeking to grow in their relationship with Christ and the Church and the practice of their faith.
Are currently in a leadership role.
Demonstrate a willingness and ability to commit to the program and contribute as a Friend of the Foundation following its completion.
Have a strong potential for development as a leader into more senior roles.
A preference will given to leaders in rural and remote areas who meet these criteria.
How to apply?
Senior Church leaders have been invited to nominate suitable leaders to participate in Into the Deep. After consultation with prospective applicants, and with their agreement, they will complete a Nomination Form. Nominated applicants need to complete and return an Application Form by Monday, 29 June 2026. This will be followed by shortlisting, panel interviews, discernment and formal invitations to join the Program.
Costs and T&Cs
Most costs associated with the Program will be covered by the Foundation including travel costs. Click for further information re costs and to view policies and terms and conditions of the Foundation and third parties.
Program overview, further details and components.
After the Program
After completion of the Into the Deep Program, graduates will be invited to become 'Friends of the Foundation'.
Friends support each other in their ministries of leadership and are offered opportunities for ongoing formation.
For Further Information
To find out further information on the Into The Deep program reachout and send us an email.
Virginia Ryan
ceo@catholicleadershipfoundation.com
Greg Wilson
manager@catholicleadershipfoundation.com