Introduction
The Doctor of Ministry in Christian Spirituality program offers a professional degree that integrates theological development and pastoral practice for effective leadership as a full-time minister. The program focuses on the study of classical spirituality, its relevance to contemporary forms of ministry, its transformative role in the life of the minister and its potential for influencing social systems. Courses stimulate in-depth inquiry into the contemporary expression of the spiritual life, while drawing upon the rich reserve and inspiration of the Franciscan, Carmelite, Redemptorist, Augustinian, Ignatian and Salesian traditions.
The Doctorate is designed specifically for:
- Vocation and formation directors and/or vocation work for religious congregations, secular institutes, diocesan priesthood and diaconate programs
- Leaders in religious communities or dioceses
- Lay ecclesial ministers in national, diocesan, local and religious settings, volunteer service programs, ministry training centers, colleges and universities, graduate theological schools
- Retreat and spiritual directors
- Spiritual formation
- Leaders of theological reflection programs
- Mission Effectiveness leaders in Catholic Health Care Organizations and in Catholic Higher Education
- Leaders in ministry seekeing greater education and formation in spirituality; those discerning ministerial change or preparing for specific leadership roles
Program Model and Components Designed for the Full Time Professional:
- Two week resident session each January and July, for a total of 4 sessions over a two- year period
- Completion of online coursework
- A thesis project tailored to the student's unique ministerial interest
Gathering of participants to work together as a cohort of 12-18 professional ministers during the on-site sessions. Residency at WTU is available and recommended for peer interaction and participation in scheduled program events.