Loyola Chicago Certificate Course

Loyola University Chicago Certificate Course in Pastoral Ministry

Loyola University Certificate in Pastoral Ministry:

Are you involved in ministry in your parish or Partnership? Maybe you’re an Extraordinary Minister of the Eucharist, a Baptism Catechist, Children’s Liturgy Leader, or one of the many other people who keep the Church and its mission moving forward; or perhaps you would like to be but don’t feel you have the skills. In any case, the Certificate in Pastoral Ministry could be just what you need.

It will inform and inspire your practice in pastoral ministry, make you more effective, bring about better results and boost your confidence.

What is the Certificate in Pastoral Ministry?

It is a customized Professional Development Programme offered by Loyola University, in partnership with the Archdiocese of Liverpool and Clifton Diocese.
It is a non-degree, non-credit programme offered over two years. The aim of the course is for participants to gain up-to-date knowledge, skills and education for contemporary pastoral ministry.
It is a two-year course with each course starting in September.

What can you expect from the programme of Study?

To gain a certificate in Pastoral Ministry. Full completion of ten (10) six-week modules is required.
Delivered in an online format allowing participants the freedom and flexibility to study in their own home.
Each module requires approximately 20 hours of time for online engagement, reading and reflection.
The course will model adult learning and shared praxis and be rooted in theological texts and the lived experience of participants.
There will be three opportunities, during the course, for participants to meet face to face for prayer, reflection and creative engagement with the overall themes.
Clifton Diocese will provide additional formation opportunities in addition to pastoral support and administration.

What do you need as a course participant?

To be serious about your own faith development.
To be willing to serve in the local Church
To have competent IT skills
The support of your Parish or Dean

What next?

If you are interested in this unique opportunity to gain a Certificate in Pastoral Ministry and wish to find out more about the course, its cost* and the application process please email sarah.adams@cliftondiocese.com.

Application-Form-for-Pastoral-Ministry-Formation-Programmes

*Training funds are available for this course.

The Modules:

Module One – WHAT IS PASTORAL MINISTRY?
Students will explore what being called to pastoral ministry in the Church means today.

Module Two – GOD WHO REVEALS – LOOKING AT THE OLD TESTAMENT
Students will be introduced to the whole range of Old Testament texts revealing a God who loves God’s people.

Module Three – CHRIST AND HIS DISCIPLES: LOOKING AT THE NEW TESTAMENT
Students will explore the New Testament texts with particular attention to the ministry of Jesus and of his followers.

Module Four – MISSIONARY DISCIPLES: THE STORY OF THE CHURCH IN BRITAIN
Students will explore the historical background to the current situation of the Christian churches in Britain.

Module Five – VISION OF THE CHURCH: VATICAN II
This course covers the story and promise of the Council, including a study of selected texts, discussions over its interpretation and implementation, and a dynamic view of its on-going relevance for the Church’s self-identity.

Module Six – HOLINESS AND WHOLENESS: HOW WE GROW AS PEOPLE OF FAITH
Students will explore human, spiritual and psychological development and the unique call each person receives to be fully human and alive.

Module Seven – BUILDING A FAIRER WORLD: CATHOLIC SOCIAL TEACHING
Students will become familiar with the development of Catholic Social Thought and Practice in relation to particular contemporary global and local issues. Particular attention will be given to history, texts, methodology and significant figures.

Module Eight – BUILDING PARISH COMMUNITIES
Parishes are where many Catholics experience their faith in community. Contemporary and emerging models for building parish communities will be explored in detail. Students will also learn about best practices for healthy parishes and effective collaboration and teamwork.

Module Nine – MAKING CONNECTIONS: CATECHESIS AS SHARING FAITH TODAY
This course will deepen students’ understanding of catechesis and its importance for the life and mission of the Church particularly the priority of adult formation. It will explore ‘critical conversation’ as an essential process for growth and development, and the relationship between evangelisation, catechesis and religious education.

Module Ten – SERVING AND LEADING: SKILLS AND STRATEGIES FOR MINISTRY
Students will explore the skills and strategies of effective pastoral ministry.

Diploma Award
Participants on the Loyola course are automatically enrolled onto the Clifton Ministry Skills course enabling them, on successful completion of the course, to be awarded the Bishop’s Diploma in Pastoral Ministry.

Video Testimonials