The Catholic Encyclopedia explains pastoral theology as a practical science rooted in the instructions Christ gave to his apostles on the care of souls. The Ave Maria University Institute for Pastoral Theology offers a "suitable training in holiness" through its three-year program of theological, spiritual and pastoral studies. Textbooks include Sacred Scripture, the Catechism of the Catholic Church, rites of the church's liturgy, Vatican II documents, the Code of Canon Law, writings of Pope John Paul II and Christian spirituality classics.

The program format makes it possible to pursue theological studies and juggle a full-time job, a family and possibly commuting long distances to attend classes. Classes meet Friday evening through Sunday afternoon, one weekend a month, August through May. A typical two-credit course meets for six hours per weekend for a total of 30 lecture hours per semester. Tuition is $504 per credit hour, and all full-time admitted students are eligible for a scholarship of one third their tuition cost.

According to Dr. Herrman, the student body is not solely comprised of religious and priests. "In fact, the vast majority of our students are lay people, ages 22-75, who are interested in serving the church in a variety of apostolates and services, he said. The graduate theology students plan on working in ministries such as family life, marriage preparation, evangelization, religious education/catechesis, RCIA, youth ministry, Catholic education, apologetics, liturgy and social justice.

Claude Sasso, vice chancellor of the Diocese of Kansas City-St. Joseph, said the courses are substantive and informative. He said he hoped "a lot of Catholic lay people would check out the courses being offered at the introductory weekend."

For further information or to reserve a seat for the introductory weekend, call toll-free: (866) 866-1100, e-mail ipt@avemaria.edu or check it out on the Web at www.ipt.avemaria.edu.

Ave Maria course schedule

The Corinthian Experience
Dr. David Twellman
Feb. 22, 7 – 9:50 p.m.
Feb. 23, 8 – 10:50 a.m.

The Origin and Essence of the Church
Dr. William Stevenson
Feb. 23, 12:30 – 6:40 p.m.

Sources of the Christian Mystical Tradition
Dr. Timothy Herrman
Feb. 24, 8 a.m. – 3:50 p.m.

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