Loyola Institute for Ministry Extension Program

The Diocese of Palm Beach will sponsor the LIMEX program beginning in the fall of 2002. At this time we are inviting all prospective students to a general session on Thursday, July 31, 2002 at 7:30 PM at the Pastoral Center of the Diocese of Palm Beach.

The Loyola Institute for Ministry Extension Program (LIMEX) roots its program in practical theology as a process which engages students in a rhythm of action and theological reflection on their specific ministries. Students critically reflect on both content and experience as they consider and correlate the richness of the Christian tradition with the socio-cultural, institutional, and personal contexts of their ministries. The courses offered by Loyola University provide women and men in ministry with an informed and contemporary theological vision and with practical skills leading to professional competency.

In partnership with a sponsoring diocese, the Loyola Institute for Ministry offers its degree and certificate programs on-site in the sponsors area. Students form groups that study and stay together for 12 courses (3 credits each). Led by a Loyola-certified facilitator for 10 of the 12 courses, students engage in 10 three-hour sessions that involve discussions of printed lectures and other assigned readings, videotaped input by nationally known scholars, and other educational interactions. Students also chose two additional courses in a focus area from a variety of available options.

Common Curriculum Courses:

· Introduction to Practical Theology
· Jewish Roots of Christian Faith
· Christian Origins: Intro to New Testament
· Grace, Christ, and Spirit
· Church, Sacraments, and Ministry
· Spirituality, Morality, and Ethics
· The Socio-cultural Context of Ministry and Religious Education
· Faith Development and Spirituality
· Pastoral Leadership and Organization
· Pastoral and Educational Praxis

Focus Areas:

· Pastoral Life and Administration
· Christian Spirituality for Ministers
· Youth Ministry
· Small Christian Community Formation
· Religion and Ecology
· Marketplace Ministry
· Hispanic Ministry
· Religious Education

· Lay persons involved or preparing for parish or diocesan ministry
· Catholic school teachers and administrators
· Clergy and religious interested in continuing their theological and ministerial education
· Adults seeking deeper connections between faith and work

For more information about the program please come to our meeting on July 31, at 7:30 PM. Please RSVP by phone, 561-775-9542 or email, judeascj@aol.com .