Program Policies
 

Attendance

Formation Component

The Opening Retreat provides the essential entry into Called& Gifted, the Lay Ministry Formation Program, and is required for participation in the rest of the program.

Similarly, the scheduled Formation Days are key elements of the faith development and community building dimensions of the program. Formation Day attendance is required and expected of all participants. In case of illness or other emergencies, the participant is to call the Program Director or Assistant Director. In the event that an individual misses more than two formation days, special arrangements will need to be made with the Program Director or Associate Director.

Academic Component

Attendance at all class sessions during the year is required. In case of illness and other emergencies, the participant is to CALL the responsible FACULTY PERSON prior to that session or during the following week. Make-up work will be expected and should be arranged with the individual faculty member. In the event that an individual misses more than two classes, make-up work will be required or s/he may be asked to repeat the course.

In order to be prepared for a sudden class cancellation, a phone chain is established at each of the sites.

Adult Learning Model

Each participant is asked to write specific goals at the beginning of each course. These goals are set in light of the course goals as outlined by the instructor. The purposes of goal setting are:

  1. to provide an individualized basis for evaluation;
  2. to personalize the general course content to meet the different needs and backgrounds of individual participants.
  3. to focus one’s energies so one can get the most out of the course.

At the end of the course, participants evaluate how well they have met their own goals. The instructor then comments on goal achievement.
 

University Convocation and
Liturgy of Thanksgiving

Each participant who successfully completes the two-year program receives a certificate from the University of St. Mary of the Lake / Mundelein Seminary. The University holds a convocation usually on the first Saturday of May for all graduates. The Mass of Thanksgiving, usually held the third Sunday of May and hosted by the parish of one of the graduates, is the Called & Gifted program’s culminating liturgical celebration for those completing the program.

The following must be completed for a candidate to qualify for program certificate

  • regular attendance and active participation in all program components
  • a Ministry Agreement with the Pastor or Agency Director.
  • all assignments and evaluations,
  • payment in full of tuition and graduation fee