By: Canon Giulianna Cappelletti Gray
Since 2021, the Diocese of Indianapolis has hosted an annual weeklong intensive of the College for Congregational Development (CCD).
What matters most to me is the impact the program has on leaders and faith communities. The feedback received from participants is overwhelmingly positive and clear. CCD consistently builds community across the diocese, provides a positive environment for ongoing spiritual development, and equips participants with insights they carry back to their home congregations.
Over these last 5 years, our IndyDio College for Congregational Development has welcomed 140 lay and clergy leaders, 93 of whom have graduated from the program. This summer, we hosted our largest cohort since 2022, culminating in a festive celebration of 23 graduates representing 12 congregational teams. Hosting our own CCD program benefits both the diocese and the wider church. Notably, 10 of our 45 participants came from outside the Diocese of Indianapolis this year, including five graduates representing the Dioceses of Iowa, Chicago, Southern Ohio, and Connecticut.
Congregational development is built on the premise that congregations of all sizes, locations, and conditions can be faithful, healthy, and effective. At CCD, individuals and congregational teams spend a week together hearing from experts, engaging with curated content, and learning from each other. It is inspiring when people from large and small congregations, urban and rural churches, come together to engage with faithfulness and curiosity. This learning creates a rich cross-pollination that sparks the creative thinking and experimentation needed in church leadership today.
I am now honored to serve as the director of our IndyDio CCD and to lead a program that fosters spiritual growth, deep learning, and vibrant community. This truly is a team effort! I am grateful to work with Kelly Nickson, Coordinator for Congregational Development and Safe Church, who has guided our IndyDio CCD through a time of leadership transition and consistently delivers both organizational excellence and warm hospitality to our team and participants. Waycross Camp and Conference Center is an ideal location for our weekly intensives. Their staff welcomes us as family and makes it easy for us to pray, play, and learn together. I thank Bishop Jennifer for her steady and enthusiastic support of this program, and no week of CCD can take place without the gifted team of trainers who sacrifice time from their busy schedules to lead small groups and provide in-person teaching.
As we look ahead, I am deeply hopeful for the future of our College. The commitment and enthusiasm of our participants inspire me, and I look forward to welcoming even more leaders eager to grow, learn, and strengthen their congregations and communities.
Are you curious about what CCD could spark in your own congregation? Whether you are a seasoned leader or someone who simply wants to learn more to support your community, we welcome you!
Next year’s College promises fresh ideas, inspiring connections, and plenty of laughter along the way. Check out our diocesan website for all the details and registration information—or drop us a line if you have questions. Don’t miss out on the chance to be part of this energizing, faith-filled adventure! We look forward to welcoming you as we engage with Year A of the College for Congregational Development next year!
