Certificate in Asian and Pacific Islander Catholic Ministry

The objective of this program is to provide a culturally focused formation of pastoral leaders, both professional staff and volunteer lay, who serve the growing number of Asian Pacific Islander Catholic communities around the United States.

We will look at immigration histories, cultural and religious practices, and Catholic teachings and traditions, from the API perspective. We will also unpack the US Bishops’ document, Encountering Christ in Harmony: A Pastoral Response to Our Asian and Pacific Island Brothers and Sisters, to see what practical guidance it offers for those working on the ground with API communities.

Upon successful completion of the certificate, students will:

  1. Know the immigration history, religious practices, and sociological challenges of API Catholics in the US;
  2. Have a broad overview of Catholic teachings and theology as well as church history and structure, scripture, liturgy, catechesis, and API immigration history in the US;
  3. Be able to more effectively understand the needs of API Catholic communities;
  4. Be better equipped to implement culturally effective ministerial strategies for various API communities.

*Spots have been filled for the 2023-2024 program. Stay tuned for more information for 2024-2025*

If you are interested in joining the 2024 cohort which will begin next August, contact us at apicertificate@fst.edu.

Program Dates: August 2024-June 2025

Course Modality: Online meetings twice per month;­­­­­ Two in-person sessions in Oceanside, CA: August 2024, and June 2025.

Certificate Completion Requirement: Students are required to attend all on-line meetings and complete all course assignments. Assignments will include short reflection papers and a final pastoral project addressing a topic of API ministry, chosen by the student.

­­Cost:

$1,200

Scholarships are available thanks to the generosity of our supporters.

Schedule:

Thursdays @ 5pm (PT)/8pm (ET)

IN-PERSON (Mandatory) Sessions in Oceanside, California:

August 2024 and June 2025

Click here to view last year’s topics and course schedule (2023-2024)

Program Directors:

  • Fr. Linh Hoang, OFM, PhD
  • Ms. Eunice Park, MTS, MAMC

Tuition: $1200 (includes all fees and in-person session accommodations) 

Certificate in Asian Pacific Islander Catholic Ministry

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