Lay Ministry Formation Program
2008-2010

We urge that theological education and formation be extended to more lay persons... The Church needs a well-educated, inquiring, and vocal laity if the new evangelization is to achieve full potential.  (Called and Gifted for the Third Millennium, p.21)

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APPLICATION DEADLINE HAS BEEN EXTENDED TO AUGUST 20, 2008

Spiritual growth, a deeper understanding of your Catholic faith, improved ministerial skills, these are some of the benefits of the Lay Ministry Formation Program.  The Archdiocese of Hartford offers this program every two years and a new class will begin in September 2008.  This web page will give you all the necessary information you need to apply.  For more information, contact me at mmarsan@adh-ore.org or call the Office of Religious Education.

Mary E. Marsan, M.Div.
Coordinator of Lay Ministry

 

What is the Lay Ministry Program

An 18 month training program for lay people who want to:

  • Deepen their faith

  • Train for various parish ministries

  • Become a more effective leader

  • Broaden their theological knowledge

  • Improve their ministerial and helping skills

What is offered?

  • Classes in Theology, Spiritual Development and Pastoral Skills.

  • An integral component is a parish internship

Financial Cost

Between $1,200  - $1,500 (usually assumed by sponsoring parish)

What is the Time Commitment?

The candidate is asked to make an 18 month commitment which includes

  • 2 weekend retreats

  • 2 evenings of reflection

  • 1 class night per week for 50 weeks

  • 25-30 weeks of internship

How do I apply?

  • Contact your pastor and express your interest.  Ask for his support and financial assistance from the parish.

  • Consult with your pastor concerning the area of ministry you wish to pursue and determine your parish project.

  • Download the application form or get one from your pastor.

  • Submit the application (pdf or word) and two letters of recommendation (pastor -pdf or word- and a parishioner -pdf or word- active in the parish), and a $25.00 check (application fee) made out to ORE.

Downloads

  • Brochure (this page in a printable version)

  • Application Form (pdf and word)

  • Recommendation letters from pastor (pdf or word) and parishioner active in the parish (pdf or word)

  • Booklet (with description of the classes)

  • Article appeared on The Catholic Transcript about Lay Ministry.

From our Archbishop

I strongly encourage pastors to promote the lay ministry formation program and seek out individuals who would benefit from this training to assume leadership positions in parishes.

Most Reverend Henry J. Mansell, D.D.

How will it help Parishes?

Provide training for lay volunteers:

  • Enrich parish life

  • Help volunteers become more confident and able to assume greater responsibilities in the parish.

  • Meet recognized needs for trained persons in specific areas of ministry

What areas of ministry may be studied?

  • Adult Faith Formation

  • Baptismal Preparation

  • Bereavement

  • Catechesis

  • Divorced and Separated Ministry

  • Evangelization

  • Family Life

  • Hispanic Ministry

  • Liturgy

  • Ministry to the Sick

  • Ministry to the Elderly

  • RCIA

  • Spiritual Life

  • Social Justice

  • Stewardship

  • Youth Ministry

  • Other areas of Ministry

For whom is it designed?

Catholic men or women over the age of 21 with leadership potential.

Criteria for selection:

  • Practicing Catholic

  • Vital faith life

  • Good self-image

  • Ability to relate to a variety of people

  • Openness to change

  • Sponsored by a parish

Endorsements

The lay ministry program will enrich your knowledge of who you are, your knowledge of the many facets of the Church and will give you a clearer direction of the path you should walk as you continue your faith journey.

Alese Kummer
St. Augustine Church, Seymour

I think it was just a natural progression for me.  I've been active in my parish for many years.  I've served on parish council.  I'm a lector.  Now I am involved in the RCIA process as part of my project.  I love it.

Laurie DeLuca.
St. Augustine Church, Hartford

The experience of the lay ministry program was enriching.  It fortified my Catholic identity and provided a framework of education across multiple disciplines.  These classes were the highlight of my week.

Richard Swenton
St. Joseph Church, Bristol

This page is part of the Office Religious Education website of the Archdiocese of Hartford.
For more information about our programs, you can send us an email.