Religious Studies Program evolves to new format for 2009-2010

Most courses remain; session schedules change allowing more participation

In virtually every parish in the diocese there is at least one—and more often several—graduates of the Diocesan Religious Studies Program (RSP).  These men and women play crucial roles in assisting pastors with the mission of passing on the Catholic Faith in RCIA, Religious Education and Confirmation formation classes, Catholic school classrooms and many other settings.

Now change is coming to the Religious Studies Program designed to make courses easier to attend while still maintaining the high quality of instruction.

“Our Religious Studies Program is a great resource for the parishes,” says Father Kent Hemberger, Director of the Spiritual Life Center and home to the RSP.  “As a pastor, I found it invaluable in preparing catechist and others for ministry in the parish.  We believe the modifications being made will increase attendance and make this a more viable option for those who wish to explore their faith and gain a deeper understanding of what the Catholic Church teaches.”

In the past, four core curriculum courses were offered and studied at the same time, with classes meeting once a month from September through June. Under the new format beginning in September of 2009, one core curriculum course will be offered at a time, with all material for the class covered in two Saturday sessions lasting 5 hours each Saturday.  Once this two-part class is completed, the next core curriculum course will begin the following two months under the same format.

The result of this change is that four core curriculum courses will be offered in eight month’s time. Over the two year cycle we will have the same number of core curriculum classes as we do in the current format. Each course will be about the same number of hours (ten) as the courses currently offered.  Those who attend and complete the coursework of the two-year RSP will still earn certification from the diocese as before. One change in the core curriculum was made to add a course on Catechetical Ministry so that the Religious Studies Program will match the requirements for other religious formation programs in the diocese.

“This new format and schedule should offer a number of advantages,” says Fr. Hemberger. “Those interested in a particular course can come and not be obligated to take any other course, perhaps making the courses of the Religious Studies Program more accessible to those who wish to come but cannot make a 10-month commitment as had been the case.   And while the core curriculum courses provide a foundation for understanding our faith, this format allows us to offer other 10-hour courses that go deeper into specific areas.”

Much of the training covered in what we now call Ministry Track courses are already being offered through the various diocesan offices and this will continue. 

“These changes were made after much thought, prayer and consultation with many of those who have been involved with the Program over the years,” says Fr. Hemberger.  “Our hope and intention is that it will be more student and teacher friendly both for those completing the whole program and for those wishing to enrich their faith by taking one or two courses.”  A comprehensive brochure outlining changes and registration information, including details about the first core curriculum course under the new format, Catechetical Ministry taught by Ms. Gayle Beuke, M.A., is expected to be ready by mid-May.

Religious Studies Program—Courses and Schedule for 2009-2010 Academic Year
Classes meet on Saturday’s from 9 a.m. to 3 p.m. with a one-hour lunch.
Course Fee: $55 (earlybird rate, must be paid 2 weeks prior to first class) or $60

“Catechetical Ministry” with Ms. Gayle Beuke, M.A.
September 12th, 2009 and October 10th, 2009   

“Introduction to the Old Testament” with Fr. Kent Hemberger
November 14th, 2009 and December 12th, 2009

“Introduction to Church History” with Ms. Jerrilyn Szelle Holladay, M.A. 
January 9th, 2010 and February 13th, 2010                    

“Introduction to Christian Spirituality” with Fr. Kent Hemberger