2nd Biennial Joint Conference: Intercultural Competency: Multi-cultural Assessment, Treatment and Understanding These Dynamics in Formation

Dear Brothers and Sisters in Christ,

To mark the conclusion of the "Year for the Priest," we were delighted to convene a groundbreaking and joint venture between Saint Charles Borromeo Seminary and the Saint John Vianney Center in hosting a conference entitled, A Necessary Conversation: A Gathering of Experts, from June 14–18, 2010. Specialists from the fields of priestly formation and psychology gathered at Saint Charles Borromeo Seminary located within the Archdiocese of Philadelphia to seek the intercession of our patron, Saint John Vianney, in the "Year for the Priest." The event was a major success, thanks to many of you!

The Vatican statement, "Guidelines for the Use of Psychology in the Admission and Formation of Candidates for the Priesthood" encouraged a new and ongoing dialogue, conversation amongst and between formators and psychologists. We are proud to invite you to the 2nd Biennial Joint Conference to be held this June 10-13, 2012 at the Philadelphia Marriott West in Conshohocken. It will focus on the topic of Intercultural Competencies. This new event will feature three days of presentations, trainings and workshops designed to engage and further that discourse with this timely topic.

Formation personnel, leadership, seminary staff and faculty, as well as any others interested in learning more about the judicious use of multicultural psychology in formation are invited. Presentations will be directed to both veterans and newcomers to the field. There will be workshops and trainings offered to accommodate those seeking basic knowledge of intercultural psychology and its role in assessment and formation, as well as for those looking to deepen their understanding of our Catholic anthropology in light of our current intercultural training and formation. Experts from all related disciplines and professional roles will be invited to speak. Continuing education credits are available through the American Psychological Association.

With God's abundant help, this conference will hopefully provide us all with a unique grace in our efforts and for the future of our beloved Church and her seminaries.

Sincerely in Christ,