This summer’s graduates of the Parish Catechetical Leadership Institute pose for portraits on the Memorial Lobby Steps on July 13, 2022 at Saint Meinrad. COURTESY OF SAINT MEINRAD

BY DR. JEFF ANDRINI, SPECIAL TO THE WESTERN KENTUCKY CATHOLIC

Ongoing ministry formation is always a blessing!

This July more than a dozen ministry leaders from the Diocese of Owensboro participated in the Parish Catechetical Leadership Institute (PCLI) at Saint Meinrad Seminary and School of Theology in St. Meinrad, Ind. Dcn. Bob Higbee, Shirley Higbee and Ben Teer from our diocese all received their certificate of completion from the three-year program and the others are in year one or two. Approximately two dozen other ministry leaders across the diocese have completed the weeklong training for three summers. PCLI has been in existence for the past seven years. Those who complete the process earn their Advanced Diocesan Certification.

The focus of the Institute is to help leaders develop a holistic understanding of ongoing formation and develop skills as a catechist and pastoral leader. The four areas of competence are covered, which are human, spiritual, intellectual and pastoral. Time is spent in each of these areas and the development of a self-directed learning plan is encouraged. The participants are encouraged to join the monks for Mass and Vespers each day; there are other elements of prayer, silence and rest that help foster a retreat-type atmosphere. The intellectual component is strong and encourages participants to have a working understanding of the 2020 Directory for Catechesis and live as missionary disciples as leaders in the Church.

There are many ways to earn Advanced Certification in the Diocese of Owensboro, but this is one that is comprehensive and available over three summer sessions. If you are new to ministry or are looking for a way to grow as a catechist and ministry leader in your setting, consider joining an new group for year one next July 16-20, 2023. The diocese supports ongoing formation for ministry leaders and 50% of the fee is paid through the Office of Faith Formation. Please contact Dcn. Jay VanHoosier, Director of Faith Formation, for further information at [email protected] And congratulations to our newest graduates!

Originally printed in the August 2022 issue of The Western Kentucky Catholic.