Together in God’s Service is a program of education and formation for those wishing to make church ministry a life vocation in the Archdiocese of Chicago. Participants take part in a three-year program of formation, sponsored by Mundelein Seminary, which includes the theology of lay ecclesial ministry, introduction to prayer forms, development of theological reflection skills, an annual retreat, four annual formation days, ongoing spiritual direction and participation in theological reflection groups. The program culminates in an integration seminar held at the University of St. Mary of the Lake.

Participants also pursue graduate-level education at the Roman Catholic theological school of their choice. In pursuing a master’s degree, typically the M.A.P.S. or M.Div., they are guided in their choice of coursework by the requirements of the Archdiocesan core curriculum.

Completion of the academic and spiritual formation components of the TIGS program is a requirement for eventual certification and calling to the vocation of Lay Ecclesial Minister in the Archdiocese of Chicago. Currently, the Archdiocese names the following as Lay Ecclesial Ministry roles:

• Pastoral Associate
• Director of Religious Education

The formation component of the TIGS program is provided through Mundelein Seminary. The academic degree is completed simultaneously at one of the participating Chicago-area theological schools.

• Loyola University, Institute of Pastoral Studies
• Catholic Theological Union
• Saint Xavier University

In addition to their academic degrees, graduates receive a Graduate Certificate of Studies from Mundelein Seminary at the conclusion of their academic training. The certificate attests to the completion of all the requirements of the Together In God’s Service program and the participant’s readiness for parish ministry.

 

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