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LIFE TRANSITION SUPPORT

Transitioning from religious to secular life is a significant personal journey. We offer comprehensive support, resources, and guidance for those who have recently completed their discernment within a religious congregation. Our services are tailored to help you navigate practical challenges, emotional adjustments, and personal growth as you build your new life. Whether your path has led you here through choice or circumstance, we're here to support your successful transition.

Life Coach

Life Transition Coaching

Walking With You Through Every Stage of Change

Leaving religious or consecrated life is more than a change of circumstance — it’s a transformation of identity and mission. Our transition coaching accompanies you through each stage of this sacred journey:

  • Within the Institution: discerning, preparing, and planning with clarity and peace.

  • The Immediate Change: navigating the first months of transition with practical and emotional support.

  • Life After Return: building stability and purpose in your new lay life — including integration into your local diocese, parish, or community.

From spiritual discernment to professional reintegration, we help you carry forward the best of your formation while confidently stepping into your next chapter.

Networking

Where Friendship Meets Purpose

No one should walk this road alone. The Next Step Network connects men and women who share the unique experience of formation and transition. Through small groups, online forums, and professional gatherings, members find not only business opportunities but genuine friendship and mutual encouragement. Together, we create a living network of support and collaboration — a community where shared mission becomes lasting connection.

Friends on Dock
Outdoor Picnic Gathering

Events

Gather. Reflect. Move Forward

Our gatherings — from quiet retreats to international conferences — are designed to restore perspective and deepen connection. We look back with gratitude at the formation that shaped us and look forward with hope to the mission that still awaits. Whether we’re meeting on a tropical island or on a mountain slope, our events provide space to share stories, celebrate milestones, and dream together about how God is calling us to serve next.

Rooftop Evening Gathering
Beach Bonfire Gathering
Outdoor Picnic Gathering

At The Next Step Network, we help men and women who gave the best years of their lives to the Church to confidently embrace their next calling. We provide the relationships, tools, and structure to make that transition not only smooth but fruitful — transforming past formation into present purpose.

  • Life Transition Coaching: we help new members make the big move back to lay life

  • Networking: we make friends as well as business connections

  • Events: we spend time together looking back so we can build forward

  • Projects: we collaborate on aligned projects to move them faster

  • Advocacy: we speak out on behalf of our members

Advocacy

Giving Voice to Those Who’ve Given Their All

Our members have offered their hearts, time, and talents to God and the Church. That dedication deserves recognition and respect. The Next Step Network speaks on behalf of those who have walked this path, ensuring their contributions are valued and their transitions supported. We advocate for fair treatment, greater understanding, and continued collaboration between former religious, clergy, and Church institutions — always with gratitude, integrity, and hope.

Lawyer and Client

Projects

Collaborating to Multiply Impact

When we work together, good ideas grow faster and stronger. Members of The Next Step Network partner across industries, ministries, and continents to launch initiatives that serve the Church and the world. From business ventures and nonprofits to creative and educational projects, we combine our diverse skills and shared values to bring meaningful work to life — with excellence, purpose, and joy.

Construction Consultation Scene
Group Building Project
Volunteers Building Frame

NETWORKING OPPORTUNITIES

The Next Step Network connects you with a vibrant community of peers who understand your unique journey. Our two-tiered approach includes:

  • Peer Networking: Connect with fellow alumni for mutual support, professional collaboration, and shared experiences

  • Mentorship Program: Benefit from one-on-one guidance from experienced alumni who can help navigate your personal and professional growth

These connections create lasting relationships that support your success in secular life.

Career Development

We empower your professional growth through targeted career support services:

  • Skills Assessment and Development: Identify your transferable skills and areas for growth

  • Job Search Strategy: Access job listings, resume support, and interview preparation

  • Professional Guidance: Receive personalized career coaching and industry insights

  • Community Resources: Connect with alumni in your field of interest​

  • Networking opportunities (small groups meet monthly).

    • Online groups

    • Annual international conference

  • Incubate new business and mission opportunities.

  • Provide ongoing career and coaching services to members as needed.

  • Provide assistance to people transitioning back to lay life so it goes smoothly and they can land better and get established on their new path as soon as possible.

  • Regular member events for camaraderie and sharing stories.

    • Summer event (Florida, Austin, etc)

    • Winter ski trip

  • Partnerships with various entities to assist in areas of life and business that can be of assistance.​

Our integrated approach combines practical tools with personal support to help you build a fulfilling career aligned with your goals

Collaborative Team Work

BUILDING YOUR NEXT CHAPTER TOGETHER

The Next Step Network creates a supportive bridge between formation and secular life through personalized support, proven resources, and lasting connections. Our members share your unique experience of transitioning from a religious or prieslty vocation to secular life, offering understanding that can only come from lived experience. Here's how we support your journey:

Preacher in Church

Expert Guidance 

Connect one-on-one with mentors who have successfully navigated this transition. They offer:

  • Practical strategies for common challenges

  • Personal insights from their own experience

  • Ongoing support as you define your new path

  • Professional networking opportunities

Joined Hands Unity

Peer Community 

Join a dynamic network of individuals at various stages of their transition journey:

  • Regular meetups and discussion groups

  • Shared experiences and mutual support

  • Lasting friendships with those who understand

  • Collaborative learning and growth

Curved Library Shelves

Comprehensive Resources 

Access tools and support designed specifically for your transition:

  • Career development and job search assistance

  • Financial planning guidance

  • Housing and practical life resources

  • Educational opportunities and skill development

  • Emotional well-being support

Group Holding Hands

Ongoing Support 

Your journey is unique, and our support adapts to your needs:

  • Individual counseling options

  • Group support sessions

  • Regular check-ins and milestone celebrations

  • Long-term community connection

Begin your next chapter with confidence. Join Next Step Network today and become part of a community that truly understands your journey.

MEMBERSHIP BENEFITS

  • Sign up for Mentoring

  • YCP free membership

  • Bi-monthly email messages

  • Counseling Referral List

  • Helpful Links

  • Partnerships/Potential Employers
     

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