From the Executive Director

We had a busy and productive spring and early summer, having prepared and sent out the Summer Listings, the 1999 Convention Presentations booklet containing the talks given in February in New Orleans, the Sabbatical Programs booklet and compact disk, the resource entitled Expressed Needs and Attitudes of the Recently Ordained (very popular, by the way -- we are ordering a second printing already!), the NewsNotes and the annual dues notices.
This issue includes a short resource compiled by Slider Steuernol of the Research and Promotions Committee. It lists four programs that would be willing to come to individual dioceses or provinces to conduct training for those who would like to become spiritual directors for priests.  We thank Slider and the committee.

Speaking of the dues invoices having been sent, thank you to all who promptly sent in remittance.  It saves us much time and expense

in reminder notices.  We also sent out Information Verification Forms.  These are meant to help us as we put together the annual Membership Directory this month. It is going well: over 100 members have already returned the verification form. Please don't delay in responding.  We want all the information in the directory to be current and accurate.

Also included with this issue is a survey being conducted by the Standing Committee on Membership and Leadership.  It is in regard to the structure of regional meetings.  It will yield the most effective results only if everyone participates.  We have enclosed a return envelope for your convenience.  It may be even more convenient (and cheaper) if you simply fax it back to the National Office.  An explanation and instructions are on the survey form.  It will only take a minute to fill out.  Please do it now.

Speaking of the regional meetings - I am hoping to attend all the scheduled meetings this fall.  The ones that I am aware of so far are:

Region VI September 7-8
Region VIII September 27-28
Region II October 5
Region III October 6-8
Region XI October 17-19
Region I October 20-21
Region V October 26-28
Region IX November 3-4
Region XII Dec. conference call

I enjoyed attending the regional meetings a great deal last year. I am looking forward to productive meetings and enjoyable socials in the different areas of the country.

(Continued on page 4)