Home // School of Parish Leadership & Evangelization // Parish Ministry Programs // LAY LEADERSHIP (ST. ALPHONSUS)

Certificate of Lay Leadership

Are you passionate about serving your parish community and making a positive impact? A Certificate of Lay Leadership is your gateway to enhancing your skills, deepening your faith, and becoming a confident leader within the Catholic Church.


Enroll in the Certificate of Lay Leadership program today and unlock the doors to a transformative experience. The program is open to all individuals who are passionate about their faith and eager to contribute to the Church’s mission. This two-year program involves monthly formation days on the USML campus in Mundelein and academic courses that will be offered on Monday nights at St. Alphonsus starting January 8, 2024!!

Tuition is $1,750 per year, enroll today for a St. Alphonsus special tuition rate of $1,000!

For More Information Contact:

Leah Lewandowski, LLewandowski@usml.edu, Student Services, USML School of Parish Leadership and Evangelization.

or

Brooks Robinson, brobinson@stalphonsuschicago.church, Pastoral Associate, St. Alphonsus.

ENROLL TODAY

Academic Courses

January 8, 15, 22, 29 and February 5, 12, 19

This introductory course provides students with a comprehensive exploration of Catholic Doctrine, offering a foundational understanding of the core beliefs, teachings, and traditions of the Catholic Church. Designed for individuals seeking a deeper knowledge of the Catholic faith or those interested in understanding the theological underpinnings of one of the world’s oldest Christian traditions, this course will guide students through key aspects of Catholic Doctrine.

February 26, March 4, 11, 18, and April 8, 15, 22

This course on Christian Anthropology delves into the profound exploration of the human person within the context of the Catholic faith. Grounded in the teachings of the Catholic Church, the course aims to provide students with a comprehensive understanding of the theological, philosophical, and ethical dimensions of Christian anthropology.

Throughout the course, students will engage in a rigorous examination of the human person as created in the image and likeness of God. Topics will include the theological foundation of human dignity, the nature of the soul, and the role of free will in shaping human actions. Drawing from Scripture, the Catechism of the Catholic Church, and key theological texts, students will explore the richness of Christian thought on the nature and purpose of humanity.

Summer 2024: Dates TBD

This course serves as a foundational exploration into the rich tapestry of Catholic theology by delving into the central theme of Divine Revelation. Rooted in the sacred Scriptures, Tradition, and the Magisterium, students will embark on a comprehensive journey to understand how God communicates His eternal truths to humanity.

The course begins by examining the nature of revelation, exploring the ways in which God has disclosed Himself throughout salvation history. Students will engage with the Old and New Testaments, discerning the gradual unfolding of God’s plan for humanity and the pivotal role of figures such as prophets, patriarchs, and apostles in conveying God’s message.

Formation Sessions

  • Saturday’s from 8:15 a.m. – 3:30 p.m.
  • You’re invited and welcomed to attend all events (they will be amazing). Must attend 3 out of 5 to fulfill requirements of the year.

January 20, 2024

Catholic Theological Union, 5416 S Cornell Ave., Chicago, IL 60615

Learn from an Archdiocesan pastor and pastoral associate how to build professional relationships and work together for the Church and its mission.

February 10, 2024

USML Conference Center (Building 400P, Room 202)

Through dialogue and listening, practice your conversational skills to address topics that arise in the parish ministry.

March 16, 2024

USML (Building 800, Room 202)

Learn how families can invite Jesus into their lives and become better disciples.

April 6, 2024

USML Conference Center (Building 400P, Room 201)

Learn how as ministers to welcome and embrace cultural diversity in parish life as part of the Church’s mission.

June 1, 2024

USML Conference Center (Building 400P, Room 201)

Enroll Today!

ENROLL