Newark Clergy Gather at Seton Hall for Leadership Study Day

Clergy from the Archdiocese of Newark gathered at Seton Hall University on February 24, 2026, for a Leadership Study Day focused on pastoral leadership, renewal and faithful service in a time of change. Hosted by Seton Hall University’s Center for Catholic Studies, the afternoon program featured a presentation by Matt Manion, Ph.D., of Villanova University’s School of Business and Center for Church Management.

Titled “Leading in a Time of Transition,” the workshop invited participants to reflect on the realities of ministry in a rapidly changing society and culture while considering how Church leaders can respond with clarity, courage and hope. Through presentation, discussion and shared reflection, the event offered both practical tools and a deeper theological framework for navigating moments of transition in parish and diocesan life.

The program created space for clergy to engage thoughtfully with the challenges and opportunities that accompany change, while also emphasizing the importance of fraternity, discernment and mission-centered leadership. Grounded in both pastoral experience and faith, the day encouraged participants to approach transition not simply as disruption, but as a moment that can open the way to renewal.

“It was very encouraging to see many priests and pastors of the archdiocese gathered on this day out of concern to shepherd their people through a crucial moment of transition,” said Patrick Manning, Ph.D., director of the Center for Catholic Studies at Seton Hall University. “The participants benefited greatly from Dr. Manion’s expertise and seemed to emerge from the workshop with a renewed sense of hope and purpose.”

Reverend John Paladino reflected on the value of the gathering and its impact on those in attendance: “‘Leading in a Time of Change,’ bringing our priests together for reflection, practical tools and renewed fraternity. It was a hopeful and energizing day that strengthened our commitment to courageous, faithful leadership in service of God’s people.”

Reverend Matthew Gonzalez also underscored the spiritual significance of the day’s theme: “At our recent Study Day at Seton Hall University, Dr. Matt Manion’s reflection on ‘Leading in a Time of Transition’ reminded us that in the life of the Church every ending can give birth to a new beginning, the perfect model being the Paschal Mystery: Life, Death, and Resurrection. As shepherds in a rapidly changing society and culture, we were encouraged to see transitions not as losses to be feared, but as moments of authentic renewal and opportunities to reenergize the Body of Christ, the Church.”

The February 24 Leadership Study Day reflects the Center for Catholic Studies’ ongoing commitment to supporting the local Church through mission-driven programming, intellectual engagement and opportunities for pastoral formation. By convening clergy for shared learning and dialogue, Seton Hall continues to foster meaningful collaboration in service of the Church and the common good.

Categories: Faith and Service