Certificate Programs 2008-2009

This certificate is sponsored by the Carmelite Institute to encourage the study of the history and spirituality of the Carmelite tradition that includes exposure to many of the more famous Carmelite personages in its history.

This certificate is sponsored by the Franciscan Center and explores the spiritual and pastoral implications of the Franciscan charism. Beyond the purely historical study of the centuriesold Franciscan tradition, values and issues relevant to today are examined.

This certificate is designed for persons who are interested in broadening their background in the area of spirituality. Studies acquaint the student with the many-faceted ways in which women and men within the Christian tradition have attempted to articulate their experience of the Holy.

In addition, the following areas of focus can be pursued for this certificate: Human, Moral and Spiritual Development, Spirituality and Culture, and the Augustinian Spiritual Tradition. Academic Advisors will provide the specific details.

This certificate is designed to support and further the development of those called to the ministry of spiritual direction. The core requirements include a historical study of spiritual direction and its theological underpinnings, related spiritual themes and a supervised exploration of the process and skills of spiritual direction. The core is complemented by other courses related to spirituality and other electives of interest. Eligibility for admission to this program is determined after an interview with the Program Director. Each candidate is expected to receive regular spiritual direction and maintain a personal spiritual practice that attends to his or her relationship with God and nurtures a contemplative stance toward life and ministry. Although the program anticipates a two-year sequence, those with extensive experience in spiritual direction may seek permission from the Program Director to complete all program requirements in less time.

Completion of the certificate indicates mastery of the course content and advanced skills in accompanying others along their spiritual path. Continued peer or individual supervision is recommended and expected beyond the completion of the program.

This certificate is designed for persons who want an extended introduction to the issues raised in contemporary mission theology. Issues are explored from a theoretical perspective and are engaged through practical interreligious and cross-cultural dialogue.

This certificate is intended to address the needs of persons already engaged in pastoral ministry and wish to deepen their theological understanding and develop new, or deepen already established, ministerial competencies.

This certificate is designed for persons seeking a broader theological understanding and personal enrichment.

This certificate is designed for person engaged in liturgical ministry who wish to deepen their knowledge and enhance the various skills involved in the celebration of liturgy according to the rites of the Roman Catholic Church.

This certificate is designed to train laypersons who are called upon to conduct liturgical services in ministerial settings, e.g. health care facilities, criminal rehabilitation centers, etc. The courses are to develop liturgical and pastoral understanding and skills.