The recovery and advancement of robust Christian catechesis in the 21st century is one of the principal aims of the Robert Webber Center at Trinity School for Ministry. To that end, the Webber Center has partnered with Trinity to establish a Catechist Formation Program. At present, that program consists of two courses of study/training:
- A six-course Certificate of Christian Catechesis.
- A two-year Master of Arts in Religion degree in Catechesis and Christian Formation.
Both courses of study are intended for those (lay or ordained) who are “able to teach” (2 Timothy 2:24), and have discerned a vocation to serve the Church through the formation of Christian believers in the principles of the Christian faith (Ephesians 4:11-16).
The program is built around a shared core of six courses, which will be offered as one-week intensives during Trinity’s January and June terms. These may be taken at the non-credit level toward the Certificate of Christian Catechesis or for credit as the core curriculum of the MAR in Catechesis and Christian Formation. While course requirements will vary depending on level, all students will be instructed in the history, theology, pedagogical principles and core content (creedal, moral, spiritual) of classic Christian formation—while being trained to catechize children, youth, or adults. Courses will be taught by a team of scholars and practitioners, with strong emphasis upon pedagogical practice and implementation at the parish level.
Core Curriculum (Courses 1 and 2 are prerequisite to courses 3-5, and will be offered annually. Courses 3-5 will be offered every other year on a rotating basis.):
Course 1: Catechesis in Christian History and Theology
Course 2: Principles and Practices of Catechesis
Course 3: Teaching the Rule of Faith – Scripture and the Apostles’ Creed
Course 4: Teaching the Rule of Hope – The Lord’s Prayer and Spiritual Practice
Course 5: Teaching the Rule of Love – The Decalogue, Holiness, and Service
Course 6: Catechesis in Context – Local Ministry Practicum (the practicum will be developed and implemented by the student under the oversight of a catechesis mentor).
Courses 1-5 may be audited as non-credit; however, those wishing to complete the Certificate of Christian Catechesis will have additional requirements and must apply to the program. Applications will include sound evidence of successful teaching in a church setting and letters of recommendation from local church leadership. Those wishing to apply should send an email request to Director of Admissions, Janessa Fisk, for instructions.
Trinity School for Ministry is a seminary in the Anglican tradition and the Catechist Formation Program will accordingly reflect a broadly Anglican ethos. However, Christians of all traditions are welcome to participate and will be encouraged to adapt what they have learned to their church context.