Theology study reopens in Natchez
NATCHEZ — A college-level theology study program from Loyola University in New Orleans is scheduled to begin at St. Mary Basilica Parish at the beginning of August, according to Father David O’Connor, pastor of St. Mary Basilica and Assumption parishes.
The theology program, which includes of 12 courses (36 credit hours), can lead to either a master’s degree or certificate level in religious education or pastoral studies. According to Ruth Powers, facilitator, “The program is designed for three categories of people — persons in ministry, persons who are interested in entering ministry, and people who are seeking personal enrichment.
It is suited for Sunday school teachers, youth ministers, lay parish ministers, family life coordinators, directors of evangelization, parochial school teachers and administrators.
This theology program was offered previously in Natchez in 1992 and culminated with nine candidates completing their studies in 1996.
Ruth McWilliams, one of the graduates in 1996 and now full-time program coordinator at St. Mary, said, “I had no plans to study theology in 1992 until the opportunity became available in Natchez. The program was challenging in the beginning but once we became immersed in it, I found it a most exciting experience.
“The lectures were great and a great amount of my learning came from the learning group of which I was a part. The learning process drew on our life experiences and called for everything we learned to be applied to our ministry situation. I am glad I completed the program.”
Louise Mallory, another member of the class of 1996 and a theology instructor at Cathedral School, said, “It gave me a solid theological foundation for which I am grateful everyday in the classroom.”
The course content, process and methodology are prepared and presented by the Loyola Institute for Ministry. A trained facilitator leads participants during the classes which meet 10 times for three hours for each course. Content input for the program is provided online, by course manuals and textbooks, by the facilitator, and also with the use of DVDs. Examinations and projects are designed and assessed by the academic staff of Loyola.
Library facilities are available at St. Mary Basilica. Participants are expected to bring their life experience to the study, and will have the support of their learning group.
Alice Hughes, coordinator of faith formation and church ministries for the Diocese of Jackson, said, “A person is never too old to grow in their faith. With decreasing numbers and aging Catholic priests, parishes need theologically informed lay leaders, and the Loyola provides excellent formation.
“This four year study program is challenging and requires persons with a strong commitment.” Hughes said about 20 of the 74 Catholic parishes in the Jackson diocese are administered by persons who are not priests.
Father O’Connor explained a person may enroll at one of two levels – graduate (master’s) level, or certificate level (undergraduate degree not required). The certificate level does not require the research work of the master’s level.
He said all classes and conferences will be at St. Mary Basilica, and the day and time for the class to meet will be set by the class members.
The first course, beginning in August, will be an Introduction to Pastoral Theology.
Other core courses are: Jewish Roots of Christian Faith, Christian Origins (New Testament), Grace, Christ and the Spirit, Church, Sacraments and Ministry, Spirituality, Morality and Ethics. The ministry context courses include Faith and Culture, Pastoral Leadership, and Educational Praxis. Each person will be encouraged to select their own focus area of ministry.
Information is available from St. Mary Basilica office 601-445-5616. Deadline for application is June 5.
