Certificate in Pastoral Ministry for the United Kingdom
The Certificate in Pastoral Ministry is a customized Professional Development Programme offered by Loyola University Chicago in partnership with the Archdiocese of Liverpool and dioceses in the North of England. Modules are six weeks long and are offered online beginning in September 2022. This unique opportunity is available to dioceses in the North of England and others.
The customized certificate consists of ten (10) six-week modules delivered in an online format allowing participants the freedom and flexibility of study in their own home. Integral to the course will be three days for participants to meet each other face to face facilitated by the UK coordination team. They will gather students together for prayer, reflection and creative engagement with the overall themes. Each diocese will provide a local contact person for administration and pastoral support during the two-year course. Participants will need to be serious about their own faith development, willing to serve in the local church and have competent computer skills.
It is a non-degree, non-credit programme offered over two years, equipping teachers, deacons, catechists, and lay leaders with up-to-date knowledge, skills, and education for contemporary pastoral ministry. Those who successfully complete the entire ten module series will receive a Certificate in Pastoral Ministry from Loyola University Chicago.
The course will model adult learning and shared praxis and be rooted in theological texts and the lived experience of participants. Each module will require approximately 20 hours of time for on-line engagement, reading and reflection.
For further information, please contact:
Elizabeth Parson: e.parsons@rcaol.org.uk
The Modules Offered Will Be
1) WHAT IS PASTORAL MINISTRY?
SYNOPSIS
Students will explore what being called to pastoral ministry in the Church means today.
Students will explore what being called to pastoral ministry in the Church means today.
AIMS
To provide students with:
A1. the opportunity to recognise and reflect on their own call to pastoral ministry;
A2. an appreciation of ministry and mission in the life of the Church;
A3. an understanding of ministerial theology and praxis.
LEARNING OUTCOMES
By the end of the module students will be able to:
LO1: identify and describe a theory and a method of ministry which will guide their practice;
LO2: reflect confidently on their ministry and gifts.
LO1: identify and describe a theory and a method of ministry which will guide their practice;
LO2: reflect confidently on their ministry and gifts.
2) GOD WHO REVEALS: LOOKING AT THE OLD TESTAMENT
SYNOPSIS
Students will be introduced to the whole range of Old Testament texts revealing a God who loves God’s People.
Students will be introduced to the whole range of Old Testament texts revealing a God who loves God’s People.
AIMS
To provide students with:
A1. an introduction to the different genres and contexts of the Old Testament;
A2. an appreciation of the different ways of reading these biblical texts and especially the importance of ‘Story’;
A3. an understanding of the Old Testament as an unfolding revelation of the God of Love and Salvation.
LEARNING OUTCOMES
By the end of the module students will be able to:
LO1: recognise the main types of writing found within the Old Testament;
LO2: appreciate some of the key biblical stories as relevant for our time;
LO3: articulate a coherent appreciation of the Old Testament as a vehicle for Divine Revelation.
LO1: recognise the main types of writing found within the Old Testament;
LO2: appreciate some of the key biblical stories as relevant for our time;
LO3: articulate a coherent appreciation of the Old Testament as a vehicle for Divine Revelation.
3) CHRIST AND HIS DISCIPLES: LOOKING AT THE NEW TESTAMENT
SYNOPSIS
Students will explore the New Testament texts with particular attention to the ministry of Jesus and of his followers.
Students will explore the New Testament texts with particular attention to the ministry of Jesus and of his followers.
AIMS
To provide students with:
A1. an overview of the New Testament;
A2. an understanding of the contexts and the communities in which the gospels were written;
A3. an appreciation of the relationship between Christ and his disciples and their role in his ministry and mission.
LEARNING OUTCOMES
By the end of the module students will be able to:
LO1: recognise the biblical roots of Jesus’ ministry and his unique role in God’s Divine Revelation;
LO2: appreciate the different styles of writing within the New Testament and their purpose;
LO3: to see their own ministry in relation to the ministry of Jesus and his followers.
4) MISSIONARY DISCIPLES: THE STORY OF THE CHURCH IN BRITAIN
SYNOPSIS
Students will explore the historical background to the current situation of the Christian churches in Britain.
Students will explore the historical background to the current situation of the Christian churches in Britain.
AIMS
To provide students with:
A1: an opportunity to locate contemporary Christian experience in England and Wales in relation to key events in church history;
A2: an overview of the relationships within and between Christian communities in Britain today.
LEARNING OUTCOMES
By the end of the module students will be able to:
LO1: identify the key phases of the development of Christianity in Britain;
LO2: recognise the contribution of key figures in the history of the Christian Church in these islands;
LO3: be aware of the major divisions within the Christian communities and appreciate the Catholic Church’s commitment to ecumenism.
5) VISION OF THE CHURCH: VATICAN II
SYNOPSIS
This module 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.
This module 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.
AIMS
To provide students with:
A1. an overview of the Second Vatican Council and its significant characters and writings;
A2. an appreciation of the breadth and depth of the Council documents.
LEARNING OUTCOMES
By the end of the module students will be able to:
LO1: demonstrate an understanding of the Councils ongoing impact on the life of the Church;
LO2: appreciate the significance of Vatican II for pastoral ministry today.
6) BUILDING A FAIRER WORLD: CATHOLIC SOCIAL TEACHING
SYNOPSIS
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.
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.
AIMS
To provide students with:
A1. an overview of Catholic Social Teaching;
A2. an understanding of selected key contemporary issues, local and global, as seen through the lens of Catholic Social Teaching;
A3. an ability to use the insights of Catholic Social Teaching to inform their response to emerging issues.
LEARNING OUTCOMES
By the end of the module students will be able to:
LO1: be able to articulate the key principles on which Catholic Social Teaching is founded;
LO2: apply these principles to different contemporary issues and within their own ministry.
LO2: apply these principles to different contemporary issues and within their own ministry.
7) MAKING CONNECTIONS: CATECHESIS AS SHARING FAITH TODAY
SYNOPSIS
This module 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.
This module 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.
AIMS
To provide students with:
A1. a deepening appreciation of the importance of adult formation and catechesis;
A2. the ability to appreciate RCIA as a model for catechesis and apply its principles;
A3. a growing confidence in applying the principles of effective catechesis.
LEARNING OUTCOMES
By the end of the module students will be able to:
LO1: understand the implications of the RCIA and the priority of adult faith formation for their own pastoral context;
LO2: appreciate ‘critical conversation’ as a tool for catechetical processes.
LO2: appreciate ‘critical conversation’ as a tool for catechetical processes.
8) HOLINESS AND WHOLENESS: HOW WE GROW AS PEOPLE OF FAITH
SYNOPSIS
Students will explore human, spiritual and psychological development and the unique call each person receives to be fully human and alive.
Students will explore human, spiritual and psychological development and the unique call each person receives to be fully human and alive.
AIMS
To provide students with:
A1. knowledge of the phases of life with references to particular psychological and spiritual developmental markers;
A2. appreciation of how our developmental story from birth to death is our universal human story;
A3. an ability to recognise the variations of growth that are specific to gender and cultural differences.
LEARNING OUTCOMES
By the end of the module students will be able to:
LO1: describe and identify stages of human growth and development;
LO2: recognise differences in how people develop and relate these to pastoral ministry.
9) BUILDING PARISH COMMUNITIES
SYNOPSIS
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 team work.
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 team work.
AIMS
To provide students with:
A1: opportunity to explore different models of parish community;
A2: an appreciation of those models emerging within their own context;
A3: an introduction to best practices for building healthy, vibrant communities.
LEARNING OUTCOMES
By the end of the module students will be able to:
LO1: articulate different models of parish communities;
LO2: recognise signs of healthy and unhealthy parish communities;
LO3: develop best practice within their communities.
10) SERVING AND LEADING: SKILLS AND STRATEGIES FOR MINISTRY
SYNOPSIS
Students will explore the skills and strategies of effective pastoral ministry.
Students will explore the skills and strategies of effective pastoral ministry.
AIMS
To provide students with:
A1. an opportunity to develop the skills and strategies of planning, organising and communicating;
A2. a recognition of the need to tend to the health and wellness of self and others within the community;
A3. the skills and knowledge of available resources for such needs.
LEARNING OUTCOMES
By the end of the module students will be able to:
By the end of the module students will be able to:
LO1: appreciate the complexities of pastoral ministry;
LO2: identify suitable resources in their local context to address particular needs.
Launch of Certificate in Pastoral Ministry for Dioceses in the North of England
The Certificate in Pastoral Ministry is a customized Professional Development Programme offered by Loyola University Chicago in partnership with the Archdiocese of Liverpool and dioceses in the North of England. Modules are six weeks long and are offered online beginning in September 2022. This unique opportunity is available to dioceses in the North of England and others.
The customized certificate consists of ten (10) six-week modules delivered in an online format allowing participants the freedom and flexibility of study in their own home. Integral to the course will be three days for participants to meet each other face to face facilitated by the UK coordination team. They will gather students together for prayer, reflection and creative engagement with the overall themes. Each diocese will provide a local contact person for administration and pastoral support during the two-year course. Participants will need to be serious about their own faith development, willing to serve in the local church and have competent computer skills.
It is a non-degree, non-credit programme offered over two years, equipping teachers, deacons, catechists, and lay leaders with up-to-date knowledge, skills, and education for contemporary pastoral ministry. Those who successfully complete the entire ten module series will receive a Certificate in Pastoral Ministry from Loyola University Chicago.
The course will model adult learning and shared praxis and be rooted in theological texts and the lived experience of participants. Each module will require approximately 20 hours of time for on-line engagement, reading and reflection.
For further information, please contact:
Elizabeth Parson: e.parsons@rcaol.org.uk
The Modules Offered Will Be
1) WHAT IS PASTORAL MINISTRY?
SYNOPSIS
Students will explore what being called to pastoral ministry in the Church means today.
Students will explore what being called to pastoral ministry in the Church means today.
AIMS
To provide students with:
A1. the opportunity to recognise and reflect on their own call to pastoral ministry;
A2. an appreciation of ministry and mission in the life of the Church;
A3. an understanding of ministerial theology and praxis.
LEARNING OUTCOMES
By the end of the module students will be able to:
LO1: identify and describe a theory and a method of ministry which will guide their practice;
LO2: reflect confidently on their ministry and gifts.
LO1: identify and describe a theory and a method of ministry which will guide their practice;
LO2: reflect confidently on their ministry and gifts.
2) GOD WHO REVEALS: LOOKING AT THE OLD TESTAMENT
SYNOPSIS
Students will be introduced to the whole range of Old Testament texts revealing a God who loves God’s People.
Students will be introduced to the whole range of Old Testament texts revealing a God who loves God’s People.
AIMS
To provide students with:
A1. an introduction to the different genres and contexts of the Old Testament;
A2. an appreciation of the different ways of reading these biblical texts and especially the importance of ‘Story’;
A3. an understanding of the Old Testament as an unfolding revelation of the God of Love and Salvation.
LEARNING OUTCOMES
By the end of the module students will be able to:
LO1: recognise the main types of writing found within the Old Testament;
LO2: appreciate some of the key biblical stories as relevant for our time;
LO3: articulate a coherent appreciation of the Old Testament as a vehicle for Divine Revelation.
LO1: recognise the main types of writing found within the Old Testament;
LO2: appreciate some of the key biblical stories as relevant for our time;
LO3: articulate a coherent appreciation of the Old Testament as a vehicle for Divine Revelation.
3) CHRIST AND HIS DISCIPLES: LOOKING AT THE NEW TESTAMENT
SYNOPSIS
Students will explore the New Testament texts with particular attention to the ministry of Jesus and of his followers.
Students will explore the New Testament texts with particular attention to the ministry of Jesus and of his followers.
AIMS
To provide students with:
A1. an overview of the New Testament;
A2. an understanding of the contexts and the communities in which the gospels were written;
A3. an appreciation of the relationship between Christ and his disciples and their role in his ministry and mission.
LEARNING OUTCOMES
By the end of the module students will be able to:
LO1: recognise the biblical roots of Jesus’ ministry and his unique role in God’s Divine Revelation;
LO2: appreciate the different styles of writing within the New Testament and their purpose;
LO3: to see their own ministry in relation to the ministry of Jesus and his followers.
4) MISSIONARY DISCIPLES: THE STORY OF THE CHURCH IN BRITAIN
SYNOPSIS
Students will explore the historical background to the current situation of the Christian churches in Britain.
Students will explore the historical background to the current situation of the Christian churches in Britain.
AIMS
To provide students with:
A1: an opportunity to locate contemporary Christian experience in England and Wales in relation to key events in church history;
A2: an overview of the relationships within and between Christian communities in Britain today.
LEARNING OUTCOMES
By the end of the module students will be able to:
LO1: identify the key phases of the development of Christianity in Britain;
LO2: recognise the contribution of key figures in the history of the Christian Church in these islands;
LO3: be aware of the major divisions within the Christian communities and appreciate the Catholic Church’s commitment to ecumenism.
5) VISION OF THE CHURCH: VATICAN II
SYNOPSIS
This module 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.
This module 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.
AIMS
To provide students with:
A1. an overview of the Second Vatican Council and its significant characters and writings;
A2. an appreciation of the breadth and depth of the Council documents.
LEARNING OUTCOMES
By the end of the module students will be able to:
LO1: demonstrate an understanding of the Councils ongoing impact on the life of the Church;
LO2: appreciate the significance of Vatican II for pastoral ministry today.
6) BUILDING A FAIRER WORLD: CATHOLIC SOCIAL TEACHING
SYNOPSIS
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.
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.
AIMS
To provide students with:
A1. an overview of Catholic Social Teaching;
A2. an understanding of selected key contemporary issues, local and global, as seen through the lens of Catholic Social Teaching;
A3. an ability to use the insights of Catholic Social Teaching to inform their response to emerging issues.
LEARNING OUTCOMES
By the end of the module students will be able to:
LO1: be able to articulate the key principles on which Catholic Social Teaching is founded;
LO2: apply these principles to different contemporary issues and within their own ministry.
LO2: apply these principles to different contemporary issues and within their own ministry.
7) MAKING CONNECTIONS: CATECHESIS AS SHARING FAITH TODAY
SYNOPSIS
This module 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.
This module 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.
AIMS
To provide students with:
A1. a deepening appreciation of the importance of adult formation and catechesis;
A2. the ability to appreciate RCIA as a model for catechesis and apply its principles;
A3. a growing confidence in applying the principles of effective catechesis.
LEARNING OUTCOMES
By the end of the module students will be able to:
LO1: understand the implications of the RCIA and the priority of adult faith formation for their own pastoral context;
LO2: appreciate ‘critical conversation’ as a tool for catechetical processes.
LO2: appreciate ‘critical conversation’ as a tool for catechetical processes.
8) HOLINESS AND WHOLENESS: HOW WE GROW AS PEOPLE OF FAITH
SYNOPSIS
Students will explore human, spiritual and psychological development and the unique call each person receives to be fully human and alive.
Students will explore human, spiritual and psychological development and the unique call each person receives to be fully human and alive.
AIMS
To provide students with:
A1. knowledge of the phases of life with references to particular psychological and spiritual developmental markers;
A2. appreciation of how our developmental story from birth to death is our universal human story;
A3. an ability to recognise the variations of growth that are specific to gender and cultural differences.
LEARNING OUTCOMES
By the end of the module students will be able to:
LO1: describe and identify stages of human growth and development;
LO2: recognise differences in how people develop and relate these to pastoral ministry.
9) BUILDING PARISH COMMUNITIES
SYNOPSIS
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 team work.
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 team work.
AIMS
To provide students with:
A1: opportunity to explore different models of parish community;
A2: an appreciation of those models emerging within their own context;
A3: an introduction to best practices for building healthy, vibrant communities.
LEARNING OUTCOMES
By the end of the module students will be able to:
LO1: articulate different models of parish communities;
LO2: recognise signs of healthy and unhealthy parish communities;
LO3: develop best practice within their communities.
10) SERVING AND LEADING: SKILLS AND STRATEGIES FOR MINISTRY
SYNOPSIS
Students will explore the skills and strategies of effective pastoral ministry.
Students will explore the skills and strategies of effective pastoral ministry.
AIMS
To provide students with:
A1. an opportunity to develop the skills and strategies of planning, organising and communicating;
A2. a recognition of the need to tend to the health and wellness of self and others within the community;
A3. the skills and knowledge of available resources for such needs.
LEARNING OUTCOMES
By the end of the module students will be able to:
By the end of the module students will be able to:
LO1: appreciate the complexities of pastoral ministry;
LO2: identify suitable resources in their local context to address particular needs.