The number 12 is significant in salvation history and in the Church. It’s also significant to the foundation of Catholic Leadership Institute. Did you know that Fr. Chuck Pfeffer was the 12th and last person to whom Tim Flanagan pitched his idea for leadership in the Church? Let's hear the story from Tim's own words.
I want to tell you a little bit about my Co-Founder, Fr. Chuck Pfeffer. 35 years ago, when I felt called to bring leadership to the Catholic Church. I was studying in a church ministry program with St. Charles Seminary in the Archdiocese of Philadelphia. I met with the priest that was directing the program and shared my vision. He encouraged me and he said: “I think you're on to something, but I'm going to suggest that you visit with a dozen people and share the story, get some feedback, and then let's get back together.”
I am what some might call a “serial entrepreneur.” I get an idea and want to move forward with it right away. So, this advice was a bit challenging for me. Looking back, I'm really glad he gave me that advice. I met some wonderful people, I got some great ideas, and the biggest thing I learned was I that I didn’t know that much about the workings of the Catholic Church.
So, I started to develop some concern and even fear. Am I really the person that can bring leadership to the Catholic Church?
The 12th person I met with was Fr. Chuck Pfeffer. At the time, Fr. Chuck was the Director of the Office of Youth - an emerging ministry for young adults. He liked my idea and thought we could bring leadership training to young adults as a way to re- engage them in the life of the Church and help them reach leadership positions within the Church. Everyone will win. So, we partnered and co-founded Catholic leadership Institute together.
- Tim Flanagan, Co-Founder
As we reflect on the remarkable journey of Catholic Leadership Institute, it's inspiring to consider how far we've come from that pivotal moment when Tim Flanagan shared his vision with Fr. Chuck Pfeffer – the 12th and last person on his list. We are grateful Tim persevered in the advice that was given to him and that inspired this meeting. It led to a partnership that has empowered leaders across the Church and impacted countless lives. With you, we continue the mission they started, building on the strong foundation they laid together.
Our CEO Daniel Cellucci's weekly email, the DIAL: Discerning Insights About Leadership.
CLI serves Church leaders, helping them rediscover their potential and forming them to be more intentional with those they serve.
CLI helps empower and energize Catholic leaders by providing focus and courage to engage the culture with an apostolic mindset.
