What is The Final Summit?
We build strong groups.
Navigating life alone can be challenging. We balance busy schedules between joy and loss. Despite the pain, we continue our climb upward. Our life journey is climbing a mountain. We can’t always see the summit while moving; the journey can feel impossible. We are isolated, empty, abandoned, confused, and hurt. We need intimacy, trust, and support.
We need help.
The Final Summit is a Catholic ministry devoted to building small groups and helping to enable leaders in the laity.
We provide resources and foster small-group community growth within our local Parishes.
We train and enable using the wisdom of the Sacraments.
We are lay mountain guides to the source and summit of the Catholic Church.
We help our priests and teach the Catechism.
We believe in the preservation of family.
“This mountain is so formed that it is always wearisome when one begins the ascent but becomes easier the higher one climbs.” — Dante Alighieri
Services
Koinonia - Catholic Small Group Framework
Every small group needs a strong foundation, just as a house built on rock withstands storms. Our model provides the structure necessary for lasting formation and sustainability. Rooted in the biblical family model reflected in the Church, the Koinonia program strengthens small groups and deepens parish engagement. Flexible and adaptable, it can be applied to any small group in any parish, fostering a vibrant and connected faith community.
Paideia: Forming Lay Leaders for Catechesis and Evangelization
Paideia is a leadership training program that equips laypeople to lead small groups focused on catechesis and evangelization through the sacraments. Rooted in the biblical concept of paideia—which signifies moral and spiritual formation—this program integrates Scripture study, sacramental formation, and practical leadership training. By empowering lay leaders, Paideia strengthens faith, builds community, and advances the Church’s mission to share the fullness of Catholic teaching with the world.
Res Tantum - Marriage is the Center of Small Groups
The sacrament of marriage is at the heart of every thriving small group. While the Eucharist is the source and summit of our Catholic faith, marriage serves as a sacred vessel that leads us to that summit. It is both the foundation and the ultimate goal of successful groups, reflecting the union of Christ and His Church at the wedding feast of the Lamb. Our program teaches that strong marriages build strong families, and strong families foster sanctification and deeper intimacy with God.
Catechism With Catholics Over Coffee
Jonathan Burnos is a professional speaker, blogger, trainer, podcaster, and published author. He has over 25 years of experience with small group leadership, personal branding, marketing, and adult learning.