This summer, The Lay Centre opens a new residential program in Rome. This edition of is co-sponsored by the Loyola University Chicago's Institute of Pastoral Studies (IPS). 

• Applications are open until May 3, 2024.
• Full and partial scholarships are available. Contact us to learn more about the costs.
• Read about the 2023 edition of the Summer Lay Leadership Program

The Summer Lay Leadership Program is designed to draw out the potential of lay leaders to contribute solutions to the Church’s most pressing challenges. The weeklong immersive and intensive program takes a holistic approach to leadership formation, including in its human, spiritual and intellectual dimensions.

Designed together with Letty Garcia, associate director of the Leadership Initiative at  Harvard Business School, the program will take place at The Lay Centre, July 5-12, 2024. It will guide participants as they look at their own life journey through a spiritual lens and listen for their call to leadership and co-responsibility in the Church.

Focused on developing self-awareness and relationships, they will define their own path to authentic leadership and return to their daily activities with greater enthusiasm and confidence. 

The program is also an opportunity to join a broader network of lay scholars and professionals, opening the door to possible future projects in Rome. Participants will have the opportunity to experience life at The Lay Centre and to receive more information about pontifical universities.

Throughout the week, participants will be immersed in Rome’s historic milieu through guided off-site visits related to the themes discussed. Sessions will be held in English.

Who is this program for?

• The ideal candidate is a lay person with at least two years of professional experience and who is interested in working for the Church and/or applying some concepts of leadership and Catholic spirituality to their daily life.
• Applicants can be from any field or profession. They are united in their commitment to discerning a call to serve as leaders motivated to tackle some of the Church’s biggest challenges.
• While there are no age limits, this program is designed mostly for those who are in the initial stages of their career

How to apply?

Send your CV and a one-page cover letter to info@laycentre.org.

For more information, please contact us on the same email address.