Welcome!
This four-year certificate program is open to anyone already in lay ministry in the Archdiocese and anyone who would like to prepare for ministry. The application form for the program as well as information about the required elements, current offerings and registration materials are found on this site.
What is the program about?
The Archdiocese of Indianapolis began its Lay Ministry Formation Program in response to a well-documented need. In the early 1990’s the dioceses of Indiana participated in a Lilly Endowment-funded study that identified the formation needs of the many lay ministers in our parishes, schools and agencies.
The dioceses of Lafayette, Evansville and Indianapolis worked together to develop a common program of spiritual formation, pastoral skills training and theological studies that would enhance the abilities of our lay ministers in their service to the church.
In the Archdiocese of Indianapolis this program is provided through the services of Saint Meinrad School of Theology, well-known for their decades of service in preparation of both ordained and lay ministers for the church. Saint Meinrad has named their offerings the “Ecclesial Lay Ministry Program” (ELM).
Saint Meinrad provides the instructors and leadership for most of the required elements of the program. The Archdiocese of Indianapolis Office of Lay Ministry provides the application process, funding, evaluation of candidates and final certification of those who have completed the program.
Partial funding for the costs of this program is available through the generosity of Catholics in the Archdiocese who gave to the Legacy of Hope campaign. The endowment that holds their donations provides funds for the required elements of this program. Additional funding may be available through the parishes or Archdiocesan agencies where the participant serves.
Prayer
Your word is a lamp for my steps,
a light for my path.
I have sworn firmly
to uphold your just rulings.
I have suffered so much,
give me the life you promise.
Receive, Lord, all that I say,
and teach me your wisdom.
Though danger stalks,
I will never forget your law.
Though the wicked set traps,
I will not stray from you.
Your laws are my heritage,
the joy of my heart for ever.
I am determined to obey
for a lasting reward.
— Psalm 119: 105-112
Contact information
Suzanne Yakimchick
Director of Lay Ministry
Archdiocese of Indianapolis
P.O. Box 1410
Indianapolis, IN 46206
317-236-7325
1-800-382-9836, ext. 7325
E-mail: laymin@archindy.org