Continuing Education
Join us this summer for the Franciscan School of Theology’s Continuing Education program—an opportunity to engage deeply with Franciscan spirituality, theology, and history through affordable, high-quality instruction from world-renowned Franciscan scholars.
Our courses are open to the public and designed for anyone seeking intellectual enrichment and spiritual renewal. Whether you are a layperson, religious, clergy, or simply curious about the Franciscan tradition, all are welcome.
Program Format
Courses are offered online via Zoom, allowing you to participate from anywhere. Each class meets Monday through Friday, 9:15 AM–12:30 PM (PDT).
The cost is $250 per one-week session, and participants earn 1 Continuing Education Unit (CEU) for each week attended.
2025 Course Offerings
Week 1: June 23–27
Franciscans Discovering the God of Hope and Wonder
Instructor: Fr. Joe Chinnici, OFM
The Franciscan vision flourishes when systems collapse, human work becomes futile, and the future feels uncertain. From such moments, a vision of glory in the Risen Christ—God all-in-all—emerges through divine revelation meeting human experience.
This course explores how hope and wonder anchor the writings and witness of Francis and Clare of Assisi, Bonaventure (the “Doctor of Hope”), and Peter John Olivi, who guided royal penitents through times of societal unrest. Together, we will examine the theological, social, and pastoral dimensions of Franciscan eschatology and its relevance for evangelization in the 21st century.
Week 2: July 7–11
St. Francis of Assisi: Writings and Charism
Instructor: Br. Bill Short, OFM
Francis of Assisi left behind a remarkable body of writings, ranging from deeply personal prayers to practical rules for communal life. In this course, we will explore the full range of Francis’s surviving texts—over 30 in total—including autographs written in his own hand and fragments of lost works.
Through study of his Letters, Rules, Prayers, and Admonitions, we will examine their historical context and gain insights into how Francis lived the Gospel. This course offers both an academic and spiritual journey into the heart of Francis’s charism—then and now.
Cancellation Policy
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90% refund for cancellations made by June 6, 2025
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70% refund for cancellations made by June 13, 2025
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No refunds will be issued for cancellations made within 10 days of the course start date