Our Why

Investing in our shepherds

Providing resources, formation, and gatherings that foster priestly fraternity and strengthen priests to build vibrant parishes and faithfully serve their people.
Watch the Priest Podcast
Events (Priest Discounts Offered)
Free Hotel Stays for Priests (Clergy Hospitality)
For Newly Ordained Priests

Shepherd's Circle

The Shepherd’s Circle exists to help priests grow in holiness and effectiveness in their ministry, inspired by St. John Paul II’s call in Pastores Dabo Vobis to care for the personal sanctification and pastoral commitment of priests.

The program is built on three pillars:

  • Liturgy: Deepening your sacramental ministry and personal relationship with Christ.
  • Fraternity: Building strong friendships, collaboration, and mentorship among priests.
  • Formation: Providing practical and pastoral resources to help you lead your parish more effectively.

Benefits include:

  • Invitation to the Annual Study Week in Napa, California. 
  • Regional events, dinners, and cultural outings with fellow priests
  • Regular virtual lectures and ongoing educational resources

 

Are you, or do you know, a young priest who would benefit from this program? Contact Charles Busch at charles.busch@napa-institute.org.

In Partnership with St. Paul Center

West Coast Priest Conference

Each January, the Napa Institute and the St. Paul Center host the West Coast Priest Conference in California, gathering priests from across the country for several days of formation, prayer, and fraternity.

The conference offers theological insights, pastoral guidance, and spiritual renewal to support priests in the challenges of ministry today. Through liturgy, confession, and fellowship with brother priests, participants are strengthened in their vocation. The gathering aims to renew priests spiritually while equipping them to lead vibrant parish communities.

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Attend Our Conferences & Events

Discounts to Napa Institute Events

Through the generosity of our donors, the Napa Institute is able to offer meaningful discounts for clergy and religious attending many of our events. In most cases, priests and religious receive 50% off registration, while bishops are invited to attend at no cost.

These benefits apply to gatherings such as the Annual Summer Conference, the Faith & Business Conference, and other Napa Institute events. Please visit each event page for specific details on available discounts.

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Watch & Listen

Napa Institute Priest Podcast

The Priest Podcast from the Napa Institute grew out of the Shepherd Circle, an initiative dedicated to supporting and forming young priests as they navigate the pressures of ministry.

Through conversations led by priests interviewing fellow priests, the series offers a candid look at the joys, challenges, and calling of the priesthood. These conversations aim to strengthen priests in their vocation while giving the faithful a deeper understanding of the lives of those who serve them. Ultimately, the podcast seeks to encourage prayer, fraternity, and renewed support for the Church’s clergy.

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Featured Podcast Episodes

Ep. 4 Father Matt Wheeler

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Ep. 37 Bishop Erik Varden

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Ep. 38 Bishop James Conley

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Ep. 42 Father Lawrence Lew

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Priests Stay Free

Clergy Hospitality

A well-rested priest is better equipped to serve his parish with wisdom, energy, and grace. The Clergy Hospitality program offers priests the opportunity to recharge with complimentary stays at select Pacific Hospitality Group hotels and resorts. In return, we ask that you provide our guests the chance to encounter Christ through Holy Mass during their stay.
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