Franciscan LEAD is a dynamic Catholic leadership opportunity for teens that are ready to step up to the next level in leadership, evangelization and discipleship. It is directed and facilitated by well-trained young adults and youth ministers who will equip and empower high school youth to be a witness for the Catholic faith and prepare them for ongoing service in evangelization. 

The week is rooted in the truths of Scripture, the Sacraments, the lives of the saints and the Catechism of the Catholic Church. Each day consists of workshops on discipleship including how to develop a prayer life, overcoming sin through the Sacraments and other practical tools for developing their Catholic faith. The week also offers tools and training to enable them to answer, thoughtfully and accurately, difficult faith questions, to become an effective and authentic witness, to share their personal testimony, and to develop a quality of servant leadership.

Youth can apply for Franciscan LEAD for the summer after their freshman year in high school through the summer after their senior year in high school.

It is a five-day, Christ-centered, sacrament-soaked, prayer-fueled immersion in Catholic teachings on leadership, evangelization, and discipleship. The life and witness of St. Francis of Assisi inspire these teachings. Each day of training will consist of workshops on topics including how to develop a prayer life, overcoming sin through the Sacraments, how to share their personal testimony, servant leadership and other practical tools for developing their faith.

LEAD 2025 is not confirmed. We must meet minimum attendance numbers before we can commit to hosting LEAD at all sites. After the LEAD application deadline, all applications will be reviewed and the decision will be made of if the program will take place at each site.