Certificate Program

We offer a convenient, flexible process to achieve a Certificate in Lay Ministry from the Archdiocese. You can take courses online at your own pace to fit your needs and your schedule.

STEP Theology Classes

We partner with the Satellite Theological Education Program (STEP) of the University of Notre Dame to provide convenient online courses for an affordable cost. The following 12 classes can be taken (in any order) to receive a Certificate in Lay Ministry from the Archdiocese:

  1. A Preface to the Study of Scripture
  2. The Old Testament: Part I
  3. The Old Testament: Part II
  4. Introduction to the New Testament
  5. Synoptic Gospels
  6. An Introduction to Scramental Theology
  7. Liturgy: A Guide for the Perplexed
  8. The Christian Conscience and Ethical Dilemmas
  9. In God’s Image: The Mystery of Creation
  10. The Doctrine of Salvation in Jesus Christ
  11. Jesus Christ: Yesterday and Today
  12. The Papacy
  13. Catholic Social Teaching
STEP Registration

You can view a list of courses and register online at https://mcgrath.nd.edu/online-courses/step/courses/. During registration, select the Archdiocese of Indianapolis from the drop-down menu to get a 20% discount. Registration only takes about 5 minutes.

STEP Costs

Normally, classes cost $99, but employees, volunteers and parishioners of the Archdiocese receive a 20% discount on enrollment.  In addition, full-time and part-time employees of our parishes, schools, and agencies receive an additional 30% reimbursement upon course completion and a $50 reimbursement for a retreat or day of reflection within 12 months of course completion (with a limit of one $50 retreat reimbursement per person per calendar year). Please send your certificate of course completion and receipts to the Matt Faley, Archdiocese of Indianapolis, 1400 N. Meridian St., Indianapolis, IN 46202 or e-mail: mfaley@archindy.org.

Other Certificate Requirements

In addition to completing the 12 theology classes listed above, the following items are also required to receive a Certificate in Lay Ministry from the Archdiocese:

  1. Application form
  2. Letter of recommendation from your pastor
  3. Safe and Sacred Training
  4. Criminal history check
  5. Interview with Archdiocesan Director of Lay Ministry
  6. Annual retreat or day of reflection
  7. Spiritual direction (recommended, but not required)
Application

Click here for an application form for the Certificate in Lay Ministry Program. The application may be submitted at any time either prior to or during the process of course completion.

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