Ministry Formation Program

What is the Ministry Formation Program?

A two-year formation program for Catholic lay men and women with at least a high school education who want to:

offer leadership in an area of ministry,
deepen spiritual awareness,
enhance theological knowledge,
develop pastoral skills for a particular area of ministry.

Who benefits from the Ministry Formation Program?

You and your parish. Well trained lay ministers will promote the Gospel and encourage the involvement of others.

How Long Does the Formation Process Take/What is Involved?

The program takes two years. Classes meet each year from September through May on eleven Saturdays (6 hour sessions), and eleven Tuesday evenings (2 1/2 hour sessions). Classes include:

Faith Development	Sacraments	Prayer
Leadership Skills	Old Testament	Communicaton Skills
New Testament	Theology of Ministry	Apologetics
Morality	Christology
Social Justice	Evangelization	Church History
Specialization Days	Theology of Church	Retreat Days

Most sessions involve some required reading for preparation and written reflections after the class has been completed. Periodic meetings with a Sponsor give candidates an opportunity fo fully assimilate and integrate their learning experiences. A Retreat is an important part of each year.

The overall formation process provides candidates with opportunities to grow through prayer, theological reflection, critical analysis and probelm solving, discussion and presentations by qualified adult religious educators using an Adult Model of education.

Will Candidates Receive Training in Specialized Areas of Ministry?

Yes, through specialization formation. Each year's curriculum provides in-service days facilitated by Diocesan leaders in specialized areas of ministry, such as:

Family Life	Religious Education	Youth Ministry
R.C.I.A.	Evangelization	Liturgy
Justice & Peace	Compassionate Ministry	Stewardship
Respect Life

These days offer a focused opportunity to deepen understanding and sharpen skills necessary for effective leadership in these ministries. Throughout the two years, each candidate works closely with a Sponsor who provides support and direction. The entire process culminates in a written Learning Report which details the insights received throughout the entire program. A formal Certification Ceremony with the Bishop follows completion of the program's requirements.

Photo Gallery

Testimonials

Bishop Timothy Doherty, STL, PhD

Adalia Popoca

Diane Willis

Adult Model of Education

The Adult Model recognizes that an adult learner is self-directed, highly motivated and responsible, and enters the learning experience with the wisdom of rich and varied life experiences. Consequently, instructors invite the active participation of these adult learners through approaches that recognize and appreciate their knowledge and background.

In using the Adult Model, instructors must also be flexible enough to appreciate the diversity of individual learning styles and needs. Effective adult learning is practical and oriented toward real life issues and situations.

How Do I Apply?

Potential candidates for the Ministry Formation Program must be endorsed by the Pastor. It is best to contact your Pastor or a member of the parish staff to discern your involvement in ths formation program. The application forms can be obtained from the Ministry Formation office or below:

Ministry Formation Application Form
Personal Involvement Form
Pastoral Recommendation
Lay Recommendation

There is a non-refundable fee of $25 to process an application.

The Program's History

The Office of Ministry Formation was opened in July of 1986 after a careful study of the spiritual needs of the people of the Rockford diocese by Bishop Arthur O'Neill. In August of 1987, the program began guiding the first group of over 50 candidates toward certification. To date, the program has certified hundreds of candidates. Most of those certified through the Ministry Formation Program have stayed active in parish ministry, and some have gone on for further training for full-time professional ministry.

The two year formation program is a wonderful opportunity for Catholic lay people to deepen their faith, and to receive the most important knowledge and skills necessary for effective leadership in pastoral ministry. Using teaching methods specifically suited for adult learning, the sessions explore our Catholic tradition through participant input, critical reflection and human experience.

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