Certification Skills Courses 
(Professional Development Credit Available)

Lay Ecclesial Ministry Certification is a program of St. Bernard's School of Theology and Ministry.  The Department of Evangelization and Catechesis supports this program by offering the Skills Courses necessary for completion.

Professional Ministers in parishes and schools are welcome to attend these sessions for their ongoing professional development.

Wednesday February 3, 2016

9:00am-11:30am -   Competencies of the Catechetical Leader (core)  "The single most critical factor in an effective parish catechetical program is the leadership of a professionally trained parish catechetical leader." (NDC, #54, B5)  This skills course will provide an overview of the five areas of formation for Catechetical Leaders as identified in the 2012 "Comprehensive Plan for Formation of the Catechetical Leader in the Third Millenium" promulgated by the bishops of New York State.  It will equip those working in catechetical ministries with skills to evaluate and develop their catechetical work.  Presenter: Mary Ann Obark

Lunch on your own.

12:15pm-2:45pm -  Communicating the Gospel to Today's Youth and Families (elective)  How do we communicate and teach the Gospel to a generation totally immersed in the technology and social media tools of the day?  How do we use these tools with full awareness of the pros and cons and the healthy benefits and dangers of each platform?  What are the basic traits we should know about this generation in order to communicate well and with relevancy?  What are the official diocesan guidelines in the use of technology, and the common sense do's and don'ts?  Presentation will include sharing of best practices and positive experiences from participants in table discussions. Presenters: Mr. Doug Mandelaro and Dave Kelly, DOR Department of Stewardship and Communications

3:00pm-5:30pm - Young Adult Ministry and Outreach  (elective) How do you engage young adults (ages 18-35) in your parish?  Young adult ministry is more than a young adult group; it should meet the needs of all the young adults in your parish.  This skills course will discuss creating ministry that touches the lives of young couples, singles, and young families in your parish comunity.  Presenter: Linda Mehlenbacher, Diocesan Coordinator of Youth and Young Adult Ministry

Registration Closes 

Wednesday, January 27 at 4:30pm

Register Now!