DIOCESAN NEWS
08/07/09
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New graduates talk about Spring Hill
By Mary Flessner
      JACKSON — Spring Hill College, the third oldest of the 28 Jesuit Catholic institutions of higher education in the United States, held commencement exercises May 9 on their main campus in Mobile. Four graduates from the Diocese of Jackson were among those awarded the master of theological studies degree.
      Ferrell Tadlock of Jackson, Judith Flechas of Oxford, Treadwell Spencer of Ruleville and Rose Snow of Madison completed their studies at the college’s Jackson extension site by attending Saturday classes held at St. Joseph School in Madison.
      Spring Hill College has provided an extension program in support of lay leadership in the Jackson diocese since 1982. The program offers an opportunity for theological study aimed primarily at the non-traditional student.
      The program offers a contemporary, ecumenical perspective in theology from the Catholic tradition. Courses provide the challenge of serious theological reflection for lay men and women with an interest in expanding their knowledge of theology.
      The program is appropriate preparation for pastoral ministry or religious education, as well as continuing education or as a journey in personal enrichment.
      Spencer, a member of Our Lady of Victories Parish in Cleveland, traveled over a hundred miles each way from his home in Ruleville to pursue his studies.
      Spencer, who is a pharmacist by profession, said he experienced “a longing to learn more about the spiritual, as opposed to the material things in life.” He started taking courses at Spring Hill because he felt compelled to stop and reflect on questions about why he was here on this earth.
      Encouraged by Father Tom Lalor, his pastor at the time, Spencer expected the experience would be challenging and life changing. He was not disappointed.
      “No one said this experience would be easy, but anything worthwhile requires effort and time. I have been fortunate enough to learn from very qualified professors, and fellow students, a wide variety of theological subjects.”
      He plans to be more involved in the Rite of Christian Initiation of Adults (RCIA) program in his parish, in Bible study classes, and in any other capacity that presents itself.
Flechas said she feels “most blessed to have had the opportunity to receive an education in the Jesuit tradition of Spring Hill College.”
      Like Spencer, she traveled many miles to attend the classes in Madison; first from her home in Natchez, then from Oxford where she currently resides and attends St. John the Evangelist Church.
      “When I initially enrolled in the master’s of theological studies, I shared the endless miles of interstate with three other classmates; endearing friendships developed on our numerous trips as we engaged in lively discussions ranging from theology to current events.
      “This wonderful support system allowed me to embark on a serious study and develop a sincere love of my Catholic faith. Having shared in the happiness as each of my friends completed the Spring Hill Program, now, I humbly follow in their steps,” she said.
      Today, Flechas is uncertain about what path she will travel in the ensuing days.
      “God willing, I would like to continue my studies after enjoying some rest and relaxation over the next few months. In my solitude and silence, I pray to discern the prompting of the Holy Spirit.”
      Rose Snow joined the Catholic Church about five years ago and is a member of St. Francis of Assisi Parish in Madison. She felt drawn to do work that would be connected in some way with the church and expressed her desire to her pastor, Msgr. Michael Flannery.
      With his encouragement and aware of the Jesuit reputation for academic excellence, Snow undertook her study of theology anticipating an outstanding learning opportunity.
      “The experience was so much more. I cannot express, in adequate terms, what this opportunity has meant to me, from an educational, spiritual and personal perspective …. Studying theology at Spring Hill addressed every aspect of life: individual faith, growth in spirituality, deeper understanding of scripture and church doctrine and a growing awareness of what it really means to live a Christian life.”
      “For those of us who discover a desire to work in a faith-based capacity, this is an excellent opportunity to acquire the necessary education and skills. But really, it is an opportunity for anyone looking for more theological knowledge. “I wish I had known about the classes years ago. Although I have completed my degree, I will continue to take classes, probably as an ‘easy listening’ student.”
      Ferrell Tadlock was serving as the coordinator of religious education (CRE) at the Cathedral of St. Peter the Apostle in Jackson when he began his Spring Hill studies.       Although he had been teaching for a long time and had training in Catechesis of the Good Shepherd, he knew “there was still more to be learned… and a degree in theology was necessary for me to become the full director of religious education (DRE).”  
      Like his fellow graduates, Tadlock’s experience “was a very positive and good thing … the three years I spent working on my degree have taught me there is always more to learn and that I will never exhaust all that the church has to teach.
      “I do not know that I am a better DRE or teacher, but I do know that I am a more educated Catholic Christian for the experience.” 
      The master of theological studies degree requires 30 credit hours selected from the following categories: six hours each of biblical, historical, and moral courses; three hours each in pastoral and systematic theology; six additional hours from any of the categories mentioned or from “electives only” offerings.
      The next Jackson extension class, Theology of Church (Vatican II) is scheduled to begin on Saturday, Aug. 29, at St. Joseph School in Madison. To learn more abouth the class contact the diocesan Office of Faith Formation, 601-960-8473, or see information on this page.

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