Ministry Formation Program

Candidates who have been selected for training for the ordained ministry as either deacons or priests participate in the Ministry Formation Program, normally of three years duration. The program has the following components:

• Academic Program.
  The compulsory course of study varies between deacons, non-stipendiary and stipendiary priests. The Bachelor of Theology is the normal course of study for stipendiary priests.
• Ministerial Formation Intensives.
  The three year progam cycle includes development of the candidate's self-awareness, as a person with particular leadership and care styles, as well as development of the candidate's spiritual life. The program also includes development of those skills which a candidate will need at ordination to the diaconate - professional conduct, liturgical skills, preaching. The program includes regular guided theological reflection with a peer group.
• Supervised Theological Field Education in the parish or other agency (school, hospital, etc.).
  The details of this will vary depending on the candidate's employment situation, past experience, and the nature of the ministry for which they have been selected (deacon/priest; stipendiary/non-stipendiary). Placements are made by the College staff in consultation with the Archbishop and Bishops. The program, expectations and processes of STFE are explained at the beginning of each Ministry Formation Program.
• Clinical Pastoral Education.
  
• Annual College Retreat.
  The College holds a three day silent retreat each year.