Welcome!
What’s Next?
What happens between now and June 8?
When you register, you will be invited to a private Facebook group where you can start getting to know your fellow participants. You will attend a mandatory orientation on March 13th and receive information about connecting with an Action Plan Strategist to further develop your Action Plan Proposal. During orientation, we will share important information about the Forum and what to expect during the Art of Accompaniment Mentoring Year.
Travel Information
Where will the 2024 GIVEN Forum be held?
Lodging and most programming for the 2024 GIVEN Forum will take place at The Catholic University of America: 620 Michigan Ave NE, Washington, DC 20064. Directions for how to get to the campus from area airports or driving can be found on the university’s website. Portions of the Forum will also take place at the Basilica of the National Shrine of the Immaculate Conception and the Saint John Paul II National Shrine.
Where will I stay during the 2024 GIVEN Forum?
Lodging will be provided at Catholic University for all attendees, and will include linens (2 flat sheets, towels, pillow, blanket). If you prefer a fitted sheet, please bring one in size Twin XL. If you need hangers, a clothes iron or a hair dryer please bring those items as well. The dormitories are well air-conditioned, so please keep this in mind while packing if you tend to be cold. Meals will be provided from Saturday dinner through Wednesday brunch.
When should I arrive?
Check-in will take place on Saturday, June 8th from 4pm to 7pm at the Pryzbyla Center at Catholic University. Dinner will be available from 6pm to 7pm. The program’s welcome will begin at 7:30pm.
The Forum will conclude on Wednesday, June 12th at 1:30pm.
To which airport or train station should I arrive?
Ronald Reagan Washington National Airport is the closest airport to Catholic University. Upon arrival visitors can take a taxi, Metrorail or rental car to reach campus. You may also arrive at Baltimore/Washington International or Dulles International. The closest train (Amtrak) station is Union Station.
If I am driving, will I need a parking pass?
Yes. You may register for a one-week visitor parking permit at CUA’s parking website.
Additional FAQs
Can I change my Action Plan?
We want you to be receptive to the direction of the Holy Spirit and at times you may feel prompted to develop your Action Plan in a different way. If the idea for your plan has changed, you need to meet with an Action Plan Strategist and fill out the Action Plan Re-proposal Form by June 30th. Please know that a brand new plan from the original proposal will have to be re-approved by GIVEN. Natural changes, new developments or “tweaks” to your Action Plan that still fall under the same idea can be worked out with your Mentor during your Art of Accompaniment year, and may not need to be re-proposed to GIVEN Staff.
Will there be time for sightseeing during the Forum?
No, there will not be time allotted for sightseeing in DC during the days of the GIVEN Forum. If desired, feel free to make travel arrangements to allow for sightseeing either prior to or following the GIVEN Forum. You are wholly responsible for all costs and accommodations outside the days of the GIVEN Forum. If you do decide to extend your stay, you can visit the following website for tourist information: https://washington.org/
What is the weather like in June in DC?
June tends to be warm, often between 70-85°F. As the event draws nearer, we suggest checking weather.com for more specific temperatures.
What is the dress code for the GIVEN Forum?
Business casual dress is appropriate for attending the conferences, workshops, and liturgies throughout the week. Be prepared for chilly air conditioning for indoor programming and in the dorms. Comfortable walking shoes are recommended.
For the Catholic Female Leaders Celebration on Tuesday night, the dress code is cocktail attire.
Should I bring spending money?
All meals will be provided. You will need to bring money to pay for your travel costs and any additional or personal spending you desire throughout the week.
Will there be time to exercise?
Yes, you are welcome to exercise during free time periods. A group often forms for morning runs. We are also excited to offer Soulcore classes in the mornings of the Forum. If possible, please bring a mat if you are interested in participating.
How do I share my dietary restrictions?
You can share any needs for diet or accessibility, as well as any other notes for Forum organizers, in your registration form.
Will there be a daily holy hour and time for private prayer?
Yes, Adoration and Morning Prayer are scheduled for the morning before daily programming begins. You will also have the opportunity for private prayer during lunch and dinner breaks.
I have a question that’s not answered here!
Please contact communications@giveninstitute.com
Resources
Mentee Handbook: This document outlines the Art of Accompaniment Mentoring Program, including expectations, the year’s schedule, planning tips, and sample questions for your mentor meetings.
Action Plan Workbook: This workbook walks you through how to develop your Action Plan and set it up for a successful launch. It is meant to be a guide for assistance in developing your Action Plan; every part may or may not apply to your idea. Remember that you will have the opportunity to meet with an Action Plan Strategist to further discuss your idea.
Materials from Orientation on March 13, 2024:
Meeting Recording
GIVEN Team Slides
Dr. Joshua Miller’s Slides
Instructions and Template for Fulfillment Stories
In preparation for the GIVEN Forum, we recommended that the participants explore the following documents. Although there is no requirement to read them, we want you to have access to these great resources that speak to the beauty and dignity of women as well as the gift of our personal vocation:
Letter to Women: This letter, written to women throughout the world, addresses the concept of woman and her indispensable role in the Church, the family, society, and the world.
Mulieris Dignitatem: This apostolic letter on the dignity and vocation of women considers the anthropology of man and woman, God’s intention for their relationship, woman’s vocation to motherhood, and the Church as Bride of Christ.
Redemptoris Mater: This encyclical focuses on the role of the Blessed Virgin Mary in the plan of salvation and her continued role in the life of the Church.
A Meditation on Givenness: This meditation is a powerful reflection on the concepts of gift and entrustment within human relationships and in our faith.
Christus Vivit: This Post-Syndonal Apostolic Exhortation by Pope Francis speaks “to young people and the entire people of God” about being alive in Christ and cultivating a lively Church culture through the full activation of personal vocation.
One thing Necessary: This e-book by Luke Arthur Burgiss and Joshua Miller, Ph.D. is a great short read to overview the vision of personal vocation that we are communicating through GIVEN mentoring. We highly recommend reading this e-book prior to our first session with Dr. Miller. This e-book is based on the longer published book that we also recommend, Unrepeatable.