Essential Steps for setting up a Conference

After hosting and supporting many events across the country, here are our top tips for starting your own conference. Some of these suggestions might be obvious, and one might surprise you! 

1. Bishop’s Support

Reach out to your bishop’s office to share the news of your upcoming conference, and get it on his calendar. Work with his office to answer his questions and get him what he needs to endorse your event. Ask for the support of your bishop for growing ministry to men in your diocese. This is key. 
 

2. Date & Time

Set a target date and time for your conference. Half-day, or full-day conference? Both are good options.
 

3. Invite the Bishop

Invite him to share a few words at your conference, between 10-60 minutes. He doesn’t have to be there for all of it. Having the Bishop say anything, even a blessing, for the men, goes a long way toward building confidence and connection.
 

4. Regular check-ins

Schedule a regular meeting, like a weekly pulse-check for your leadership team to create this conference.
Commit to a day and time (90 minutes or less) and get the meetings on all schedules. Designate a group member to lead these meetings and ensure everyone is getting things done. Always have someone taking notes and writing to-do's.

Create momentum for the group together.
 

5. Fundraise

Some conferences are run through an established non-profit. [If not…?] Get quotes and itemize all conference expenses (You will be better at this the second and third time around, so ask a lot of questions right now). Then go about securing finances for each thing. Look locally for possible business/ministry sponsors.

Create a sponsorship form that lists three sponsorship levels. Explain what they will receive at each level.

One primary sponsor is always good. Men with businesses are always looking to promote their business and brands at public events, as well as supporting worthy causes. Just ask!
 

6. Secure your speaker(s)

Your speakers are likely amazing, and willing to speak. But they are often in high demand, so don't delay. One option to keep things affordable is using someone in-house. This is also great for featuring local leadership that stays after the event ends. But ensure they are the right fit. Don't just book someone because they are "free". Every speaker needs to be GOOD, and move these men in the way of Our Lord.
 

7. Use our resources

Your CMLA team is happy to send you materials and resources for your conference. We’re here to bring high-quality, faith-building resources that strengthen and equip men! Plus, we can provide all the training and content afterward to continue the energy of your conference. Let’s inspire men to thrive together.
 

8. Regularly pray

Invoke Jesus and your patron saints for guidance and inspiration, asking God to bless your efforts. Offer your hope that your conference can be a starting point to serve men, and help them grow together in the way of Jesus Christ and his Church.