The Diocese of Wilmington launched “Catholic Business Network” in June 2025 as a way to bring together local Catholic business leaders throughout the diocese in a networking environment.
Sheila McGirl, development director, and Joseph P. Owens, editor and general manager of The Dialog, are spearheading the effort that launched with a 7:30 a.m. breakfast at the St. Joseph on the Brandywine parish center, 10 Old Church Road, Wilmington.
“The vocation of the business leader” was the topic of the first keynote to be delivered by Bishop William E. Koenig.
McGirl was among the founders of a similar group in South Jersey when she worked for the Diocese of Camden, New Jersey. She said the plan is to move the business breakfasts around Delaware and the Eastern Shore of Maryland to include the many business centers throughout the diocese.
“We have so many Catholics who do great work in their businesses in the diocese and we believe they can help each other grow while engaging with other Catholics in business,” McGirl said.
The second event was in Ocean City, Md., in September. Dec. 5 is at St. Elizabeth Ann Seton in Bear. Two more are scheduled for 2026 — March 6 at Saint Peter and Paul parish in Easton, Md., and June 5 at Church of the Holy Child in Wilmington.
Owens said first-time attendees present for the networking event will get a free print/digital advertising package to help promote their business.
To register for the event, visit givecentral.org/CDOW-Catholic-Business-Networking or phone McGirl at 302-573-3120.
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