2026 CCFA Conference

Catholic Administration, Technology & the Rapidly Evolving World of AI

The Canadian Catholic Financial Administrators (CCFA) Conference brings together diocesan finance leaders from across the country to support the effective stewardship of the Church’s financial and administrative responsibilities. Each year, the conference provides a national space for administrators to deepen their expertise through presentations on topics such as stewardship, legal developments, insurance matters, and emerging financial challenges within the Church.

In addition to its educational program, the conference fosters strong professional relationships among participants. Through networking, discussions, and shared learning, attendees gain valuable insights, exchange practical solutions, and benefit from the collective experience of peers across Canada—strengthening financial leadership and reducing the need for dioceses to develop practices in isolation.

Conference Hosts

Each year, the Canadian Catholic Financial Administrators (CCFA) Conference is guided by a team of dedicated hosts from one of Canada’s dioceses. Drawing on their local expertise and hospitality, the hosts help shape the tone of the gathering, support a welcoming environment, and ensure a smooth and engaging experience for all participants. Their role remains central to fostering connection, collaboration, and a spirit of shared mission throughout the conference. This year’s hosts include:

Conference Schedule

The Canadian Catholic Financial Administrators (CCFA) Conference features a full program designed to support learning, collaboration, and meaningful connection among diocesan financial leaders. Throughout the event, participants can expect a balanced schedule that includes keynote presentations, expert-led sessions, roundtable discussions, and opportunities for networking. Time is also set aside for prayer, reflection, and communal gatherings that enrich the experience and strengthen the shared mission of stewardship within the Church.

 

Guest Events

Winnipeg Trolley

The Winnipeg Trolley, Monday, leaving the Inn at the Forks at 9:30 am for the City Tour.

What’s Included:

  • Narrated city tour on board the Trolley with a professional local guide.
  • See Winnipeg’s most important sites, including downtown, the French Quarter (St. Boniface), charming residential neighbourhoods, and much more.
  • Step-off visit to the Back Alley Arctic Outdoor Art Gallery—a chance to stretch your legs and see one of Winnipeg’s true hidden (and we really do mean hidden) gem attractions.

What’s Not Included:

  • Gratuities
  • Water

What to Bring:

  • Comfortable shoes
  • Camera

 

Conference Speakers

Each year, our conference brings together a dynamic lineup of thought leaders, innovators, and industry trailblazers. While this year’s speakers are still being finalized, you can expect a diverse group of experts who are shaping the future of their fields. From visionary keynote presenters to hands‑on practitioners, our speakers offer fresh perspectives, practical insights, and actionable ideas designed to inspire and empower every attendee. Stay tuned—this year’s roster will be worth the wait.

Keynote Speaker

Our keynote speaker, Rev. Deacon Dr. Andrew P.W. Bennett, will lead a four-part series addressing:

  • What it means to be human in a technological age

  • The limits of technology and our role as co-creators

  • The proper use of reason and human intelligence

  • How to make sound decisions rooted in the true, the good, and the beautiful

These sessions provide practical and necessary ethical formation for those entrusted with financial and administrative leadership in the Church.

About the speaker: 

The Rev. Dr. Andrew P.W. Bennett is a deacon in the Ukrainian Greek-Catholic Church and a leading Canadian voice on religious freedom and public faith. He serves as Director of the Faith Communities program at Cardus and as a Senior Fellow at the Religious Freedom Institute. Formerly Canada’s first Ambassador for Religious Freedom, he continues to advocate internationally on behalf of the persecuted.  A scholar with a Ph.D. in Politics from the University of Edinburgh, Fr. Deacon Andrew is dedicated to renewing the place of the sacred in public life. When not engaged in ministry or research, he enjoys fly fishing, bluegrass and Beethoven, and reading spy novels and the Church Fathers.

Access Full List of Conference Speakers

BDO Canada LLP –  Joe Solloum

Joseph is a Partner in BDO Canada’s Technology Consulting practice in the Data & AI service line. He has over 23 years of experience designing and delivering large-scale web applications, data platforms, AI-driven solutions for clients in the financial services, energy, and public sectors. His work centers on guiding organizations through the modernization of their data infrastructure, the adoption of advanced analytics, and the integration of AI solutions; ensuring that each initiative delivers measurable value and aligns closely with strategic business objectives. 


John Del Grande, Ecclesiastical Insurance

With 20+ yrs industry experience, John joined Ecclesiastical in 2020. In his current role, John oversees enterprise tools, cybersecurity, and infrastructure; enhancing business capabilities through innovation, and supporting project management for successful initiative execution. John’s credentials include active certifications as a Certified Fraud Examiner (CFE), Certified Information Systems Security Professional (CISSP) and Professional Agile Leadership (PAL I).


Fiera Capital –  Sam Vallee

Integrating sound governance criteria into our investment processes is part of Fiera Capital’s DNA. It entails taking a rigorous approach to risk management to achieve optimal performance within an appropriate level of risk. ESG governance is a shared responsibility at Fiera Capital, with multiple different business divisions and functions involved to make sure that we continue to enhance our capabilities in the years to come. Fiera Capital also has an ESG Committee, which includes representation from internal stakeholders across functions and divisions, to support the integration of ESG throughout the firm. Collectively, they implement the firm’s strategic objectives related to sustainable investing.


MNP Digital –  Curtis Adair and Elka Dunnette

MNP is one of Canada’s largest national professional services firms, providing accounting, tax, consulting, and digital services across more than 150 communities nationwide.
Curtis is a senior advisor in MNP’s Digital practice who specializes in helping organizations use data and emerging technologies to improve financial management and operational performance. He brings extensive experience working with public sector and not-for-profit clients to streamline processes, strengthen reporting, and apply AI in practical, responsible ways.
Elka is known for making complex technology approachable and for helping leadership teams adopt modern tools in ways that support stronger decision-making, better stewardship, and more efficient day-to-day operations.

Rev. Fr. Darrin J.G. Gurr – Archdiocese of Winnipeg

Father Darrin J.G. Gurr, B.A., M. Div., M.A., is a priest of the Archdiocese of Winnipeg ordained to the priesthood in 1989.  He has worked in both rural and urban parishes and has employed the principles of stewardship in all aspects of ministry.  Fr. Darrin has facilitated workshops, conferences, study days and retreats in stewardship throughout Canada and in parts of the United States.  He is currently the founding pastor of the new parish community of St. Gianna Beretta Molla Parish in Winnipeg, Manitoba, a comprehensive stewardship parish.  Fr. Darrin also serves as the Archdiocesan Director for Liturgy.

 

Conference Registration

Join professionals from across the industry for a full day of learning, connection, and inspiration. Your registration will grant access to engaging sessions, dynamic speakers, and valuable networking opportunities. Space is limited, so be sure to secure your spot early and stay tuned for more details on pricing, schedules, and special announcements.

Hotel Reservation Procedures

Inn at the Forks, located in the city’s most vibrant and historic district, Inn at the Forks offers an exceptional blend of modern comfort, boutique style, and authentic local character. Just steps away from world‑class dining, cultural attractions, riverside trails, and The Forks Market, it’s the perfect home base for conference attendees looking to experience the best of Winnipeg.

Guests will enjoy beautifully appointed rooms, award‑winning dining at SMITH, and relaxation at Riverstone Spa—all within a short walk of the conference venue. Whether you’re unwinding after a busy day or exploring the energy of The Forks, Inn at the Forks provides a welcoming and memorable stay for every visitor.

Individuals will contact the Hotel on or before Friday, April 24, 2026 to make their reservations. Individuals must identify themselves as attendees of the Group, specifying the Group Name Catholic Financial Administrators (CCFA), Group Reservation #705809 and the event dates. Negotiated room rate: $239/night for 24x Deluxe King, 15x Standard Two Queen and 30x Superior King.

Should guests wish to extend their stay, they will have to email the Hotel’s Front Desk at info@innforks.com in order to have the group rate applied. Extended reservations cannot be made online.  Reservations made after Friday, April 24, 2026 or reservations made in excess or outside the original guestroom block will not have the Group rate applied, and will be subject to the Hotel’s availability at the current market rate.

Reservations after April 24 can be made by calling the hotel at the telephone no. (204) 942-6555. Note that the prevailing hotel daily rate will apply. 

 

 

Conference Sponsors

Platinum Sponsors


Established in 2011, the Ex Corde Foundation provides financial assistance to Parishes and other Catholic charities within the Diocese of Hamilton and across Canada.

The Foundation provides grants to repair or renovate buildings; to provide and maintain religious and devotional artifacts, stained glass windows, and other religious works of art; and to support religious education, catechesis, and the provision of liturgical resources and pastoral programs. Learn more. 

 

Gold Sponsors


Silver Sponsors


 

Bronze Sponsors


 

 

 

 

 

Patron Sponsors