Subcommittee on Certification for Ecclesial Ministry and Service Directory

A PDF Version of the most current Certification Directory can be found here. The information can also be found below.

Alliance of Organizations with Approved Certification Standards and Procedures

• Federation of Diocesan Liturgical Commissions
• National Association for Lay Ministry
• National Conference for Catechetical Leadership
• National Federation for Catholic Youth Ministry, Inc.
• National Association of Pastoral Musicians

Organizations with Approved Certification Standards and Procedures

• American Catholic Correctional Chaplains Association
• Catholic Campus Ministry Association
• National Association of Catholic Chaplains
• National Conference of Catholic Airport Chaplains
• National Conference of Veterans Affairs Catholic Chaplains
  

State Catholic Conference Organization with Approved Certification Standards and Procedures

• Minnesota Catholic Education Association
  

Arch/Diocesan Offices with Approved Certification Standards and Procedures

• Office of Catechesis and Youth Ministry, Archdiocese of Chicago, IL
• Office of Youth and Young Adult Ministry, Archdiocese of Cincinnati, OH
• Ministerial Certification, Office of Evangelization and Catechesis, Archdiocese of Detroit, MI
• Office of Catechesis, Diocese of Lansing, MI
• Office of Youth Ministry, Young Adult and Campus Ministry, Diocese of Lansing, MI
  
• Office for Lay Ecclesial Ministry, Diocese of Lansing, MI
• Office of Evangelization and Catechesis, Archdiocese of Galveston-Houston, TX
• Office of Adolescent Catechesis and Evangelization, Archdiocese of Galveston-Houston, TX
  

Arch/Diocesan Offices Preparing for Approval of Certification Standards and Procedures

• Office of Religious Education and the Office of Youth and Young Adult Ministries, Diocese of Savannah, GA
• Office of Catechesis, Diocese of Peoria, IL
• Office of Religious Education, Diocese of Worcester, MA
• Office of Christian Worship, Archdiocese of Detroit, MI
• Office of Religious Education, Diocese of Metuchen, NJ
• Office for Youth Ministry, Diocese of Charlotte, NC
  

---

Alliance of Organizations with Approved Certification Standards and Procedures for Certifying Ecclesial Ministers

The Alliance for the Certification of Lay Ecclesial Ministers (or, “the Alliance”) seeks to affirm and promote lay ecclesial ministry in parishes and dioceses throughout the United States.  In October 2011, the former Commission on Certification and Accreditation of the United States Conference of Catholic Bishops (USCCB/CCA) granted approval of the national certification standards and procedures for a period of seven years.  For information about this collaborative certification process and procedures go to: http://www.lemcertification.org/ or email info@lemcertification.org.

The Alliance is comprised of the following five national Catholic ministry organizations working collaboratively to produce common standards for lay ecclesial ministry and to implement and promote the certification of lay ecclesial ministers:

Federation of Diocesan Liturgical Commissions

McCormick Pavilion
415 Michigan Avenue, N.E. Suite 70
Washington, DC 20017-4502

Phone:       202-635-6990
Fax:           202-529-2452
Email:       nationaloffice@fdlc.org
Web:         www.fdlc.org

The Federation of Diocesan Liturgical Commission (FDLC) is a national organization composed primarily of members of diocesan liturgical commissions, worship offices and/or the equivalent diocesan liturgical structures. These diocesan liturgical personnel, appointed by their bishops, have responsibility for the promotion of the liturgical life of their dioceses. The FDLC serves as an official collaborating agent between the local churches through diocesan worship offices and liturgical commissions and the USCCB Bishops' Committee on Divine Worship.

The goal of the FDLC is to promote the liturgy as the heart of Christian life-especially in the parish community. As a pastoral, "locally-based," and professional organization, the FDLC shall be committed to assist the Catholic Church in the United States of America, its hierarchy, the local churches, and the individual bishops in their responsibilities of providing positive leadership in liturgical celebration, education, and development.

Any dues paying Diocese in the United States and its territories is eligible for membership in the FDLC. Membership entitles each Diocese to have two voting delegates at the National Meeting. In addition, the FDLC offers associate and industry memberships. Lisa A. Tarker is the Executive Director.

National Association for Lay Ministry

415 Michigan Avenue, NE - Suite 40

Washington, DC 20017

Phone:       202-291-4100

Fax:           202-291-8550

E-mail:      nalm@nalm.org

Web:         www.nalm.org

The National Association for Lay Ministry (NALM) has approved standards for the certification of coordinators of parish life, pastoral associates, and pastoral ministers. NALM is a professional organization that supports, educates, and advocates for lay ministers, and promotes the development of lay ministry in the church. NALM achieves its mission by providing leadership, voice, and vision for the ongoing development of lay ministry by collaborating with the National Association for Church Personnel Administrators, the National Conference for Catechetical Leadership, the National Federation for Catholic Youth Ministry, the National Organization for the Continuing Education of the Roman Catholic Clergy, and other national organizations. NALM fosters the professional development and spiritual formation of career and volunteer lay ministers with educational resources, publications, workshops, retreats, speakers, consultation services, and competency-based standards for pastoral ministers, pastoral associates, and parish life coordinators. NALM also provides practical services and resources that support lay ministers through national forums, annual conferences, chapters, and affiliates. In 2003, NALM collaborated with the National Conference for Catechetical Leadership and the National Federation for Catholic Youth Ministry in the approval and publication of the National Certification Standards for Lay Ecclesial Ministers. NALM's membership consists of men and women who are lay, religious, and ordained who serve the church primarily as pastoral ministers, pastoral associates, directors of ministry formation programs, parish life coordinators, and social ministers. NALM has over 1,200 members.

Officers of the board are Frank Villaronga, Chair; Gerald J. Tortorella, Vice Chair; Carol Walters, Secretary; and Diane Koorie, RSM, Treasurer. The Most Rev. John Wester, Bishop of Salt Lake City, Utah is the Episcopal Liaison. Christopher A. Anderson is the Executive Director.

National Conference for Catechetical Leadership

3031 Fourth Street NE - Suite B
Washington, DC 20017

Phone:      202-524-4628

Fax:           202-269-0209

E-mail:      nccl@nccl.org

Web:         www.nccl.org

The National Conference for Catechetical Leadership (NCCL) has approved standards for the certification of catechetical leaders. NCCL is a member association of 2,300 diocesan, parish, academic, and publishing catechetical leaders dedicated to advancing excellence in catechesis. Professional and associate membership is open to those who meet the appropriate membership criteria and are interested in supporting the mission of the organization. To carry out its mission, NCCL provides resources, national conferences, professional development, information, networking, research, and advocacy for its members and others engaged in catechetical ministry. NCCL members gather on a regular basis in the geographical provinces that make up the Latin and Eastern components of the church. Elected representatives from provinces and affiliated organizations compose the representative council, which along with the board of directors makes up the organization's major governance structures. NCCL grew out of the Confraternity of Christian Doctrine movement in the 1930s when diocesan Confraternity for Catholic Doctrine directors first began to meet. NCCL became a separately incorporated organization in 1967. In 2003, NCCL collaborated with the National Association for Lay Ministry and the National Federation for Catholic Youth Ministry in the approval and publication of the National Certification Standards for Lay Ecclesial Ministers.

The NCCL Officers are William Miller, Cleveland, Ohio, President; Enedina Saucedo, San Diego, California, Vice-President; Linda Stryker, Omaha, Nebraska, Secretary; Joanie McKeown, Grantsburg, Wisconsin, Treasurer. The Most Rev. Leonard P. Blair, Bishop of Toledo in Ohio, is the Episcopal Moderator. Leland D. Nagel is the Executive Director.

National Federation for Catholic Youth Ministry, Inc

415 Michigan Avenue, N.E., Suite 40
Washington, DC 20017-1518

Phone:      202-636-3825
Fax:           202-526-7544
Email:        bobm@nfcym.org
Web:          www.nfcym.org

The National Federation for Catholic Youth Ministry, Inc. (NFCYM) has approved standards for the certification of youth ministry leaders. NFCYM was founded in 1982 to replace and expand upon the services of the National Catholic Youth Organization and most youth services of the United States Conference of Catholic Bishops. Through a diocesan, regional, and national network encompassing the United States and its territories, the federation provides leadership, resources, programs, and networking to foster the ongoing development of ministry to, with, by, and for youth. The federation comprises 175 affiliated dioceses and 60 collaborating organizations from around the country, all ministering to youth as expressed in A Vision of Youth Ministry (1976) and Renewing the Vision: A Framework for Catholic Youth Ministry (1997). In 2003, NFCYM collaborated with the

National Association for Lay Ministry and the National Conference for Catechetical Leadership in the approval and publication of the National Certification Standards for Lay Ecclesial Ministers. The National Association of Pastoral Musicians adopted this framework in 2006. Meetings for NFCYM members are held the last week in January.

Officers of the board are Mr. John Rinaldo, Diocese of San Jose, Chair; Mrs. Michelle Maher-Lyons, Diocese of Colorado Springs, First Vice- Chair, Ms. Rita Ramos, Archdiocese of Omaha, Second Vice-Chair and Ms. Kathy Loney, Diocese of Fargo, Secretary/Treasurer. The Most Rev. Martin D. Holley, Auxiliary Bishop of the Archdiocese of Washington, is the Episcopal Liaison. Robert J. McCarty is the Executive Director.

National Association of Pastoral Musicians

962 Wayne Ave., Suite 210
Silver Spring, MD 20910-4461

Phone:      240-247-3000
Fax:           240-247-3001
Email:       npmsing@npm.org
Web:         www.npm.org

The National Association of Pastoral Musicians (NPM) has approved standards and procedures to certify directors of music ministries. NPM is a membership organization composed primarily of musicians, musician-liturgists, clergy, and other leaders of prayer. NPM is devoted to serving the life and mission of the church by fostering the art of musical liturgy in Catholic worshiping communities. The association offers a wide range of programs and services for its members and the pastoral music and liturgy community: a bimonthly magazine, Pastoral Music; a bimonthly newsletter, Pastoral Music Notebook, national and regional conventions, diverse institutes offering participants short-term intensive professional development experiences; a hotline position-referral service; 72 diocesan chapters throughout the United States and Canada; support networks for distinct practice areas within the pastoral music community; and generous scholarships to assist with financing education and formation for deserving pastoral musicians.

Officers are Dr. Jennifer Pascual, Chair; Mr. Stephen Petrunack, Vice Chair; Rev. Anthony Ruff, OSB; Dr. Lynn Trapp; Dr. J. Michael McMahon, ex officio; and Mr. Thomas Stehle. Dr. Kathleen DeJardin is the Chair of the National Certification Committee. Dr. J. Michael McMahon is the president of NPM.

National Organizations with Approved Certification Standards and Procedures for Certifying Ecclesial Ministers

The USCCB Subcommittee has approved the certification standards and procedures of the following professional organizations for specialized ministries.

American Catholic Correctional Chaplains Association

Paul E. Rogers, ACCCA President
738 Guernsey Court
Slinger, WI 53086

Phone:    262-644-8083
Fax:          262-644-7951
E-mail:     Paul.Rogers@Wisconsin.gov   
Web:        www.catholiccorrectionalchaplains.org

The American Catholic Correctional Chaplains Association (ACCCA) has approved standards and procedures to certify correctional chaplains. ACCCA endeavors to influence the corrections and criminal justice system, to develop spirituality within inmates, and to influence the consciences of corrections administrators. Members are a source of communication and support to each other, and share methods of spirituality, training, and ministry programs. National meetings are held in the summer and winter. Meetings in the six regions may be held at any time. The ACCCA has 140 members.

Officers of the board are Paul E. Rogers, President; Rev. Michael Koncik, C.SsR., Vice-president; Christine M. Shimrock, Secretary; Teodoro Rael, Treasurer, Rev. Mark C. Schmieder, Past-president; Sr. Peggy Devaney IHM, Certification Chair. The Most Reverend Barry C. Knestout, Auxiliary Bishop of Washington, DC, is the Episcopal Advisor.

Catholic Campus Ministry Association

430 Reading Rd., Suite 400
Cincinnati, OH 45202

Phone:       513-842-0167
Fax:            513-842-0171
E-mail:       info@ccmanet.org
Web:          www.ccmanet.org

 

The Catholic Campus Ministry Association (CCMA) has approved standards and procedures to certify campus ministers. CCMA is a professional organization whose mission is to foster the professional and theological growth of Catholic campus ministers and to promote the mission of the Church in higher education. CCMA carries out this mission through educational opportunities such as conventions, conferences, special workshops, and publications such as newsletters, directories, and journals. Full membership is designed for those currently serving the Church in campus ministry. Associate memberships are available for those interested in supporting this ministry. CCMA's National Convention is held every other January, and its Development Institute is held annually. CCMA has more than 1,000 members. USCCB Subcommittee on Certification for 6 Ecclesial Ministry and Service Directory - 2013 Officers of the Executive Board are Laurie Svatek, Chair; Jason Simon, Vice-Chair and David Zeamer, Treasurer. Vinci Paterson is the chair of the CCMA Certification Committee.

 

National Association of Catholic Chaplains

4915 S. Howell Avenue, Suite 501
Milwaukee, WI 53207-5939

Phone:        414-483-4898 Ext. 301
Fax:             414-483-6712
E-mail:        info@nacc.org
Web:           www.nacc.org

The National Association of Catholic Chaplains advocates for the profession of spiritual care and educates, certifies, and supports chaplains, clinical pastoral educators, and all members who continue the healing ministry of Jesus in the name of the Church. Membership categories include full member, certified chaplain, certified supervisor, professional affiliate, and student affiliate. The NACC has 3,000 members.

Leadership includes Bonnie J. Burnett, M.Div., BCC., Chair of the Board; Most Rev. Paul Coakley, Archbishop of Oklahoma City, Oklahoma, Episcopal Liaison; and David A. Lichter, D.Min., Executive Director.

National Conference of Catholic Airport Chaplains

Rev. Fr. Michael G. Zaniolo, STL, Certified Airport Chaplain (CAC), NCCAC President Chicago O'Hare International Airport
P.O. Box 66353
Chicago, IL 60666-0353

Phone:      773-686-2636
Fax:           773-686-0130
Email:       office@nccac.us
Web:         www.nccac.us

Founded in 1986, the National Conference of Catholic Airport Chaplains (NCCAC) has approved standards and procedures to certify airport chaplains. NCCAC, in affiliation with the USCCB Committee on Cultural Diversity, Subcommittee on Pastoral Care of Migrants, Itinerants and Travelers provides support and communication for all Catholics providing pastoral care to airport workers, airline workers, and travelers. More information is at www.nccac.us

Members of the board of directors are Rev. Fr. Michael G. Zaniolo, STL, CAC, NCCAC President (ORD/MDW); Fr. Philip Majka, CAC, Vice President (IAD); Deacon Phil Disparte, CAC, Secretary (ORD); Deacon Dennis Jordan, CAC, Treasurer (MIA). Fr. Glenn O'Connor, IND; Fr. Bob Sussan, CAC, ORL; Fr. Chris Piasta, JFK, and Most Rev. Jerome Listecki, JD, JCD are all members of the board. His Excellency, Most Rev. Jerome Listecki, Bishop of LaCrosse is the Episcopal Liaison. Sr. Myrna Tordillo is the USCCB Director of Mobility Apostolates.

National Conference of Veterans Affairs

Rev. James Burnett, President
Edward Hines Jr. VA Medical Center
5th and Roosevelt P.O. Box 5000 (125)
Hines, IL 60141-5000

Phone:      708-202-7268
Fax:           708-202-2231
Email:       James.Burnett@va.gov
Web:         www.ncvacc.net

The National Conference of Veterans Affairs Catholic Chaplains (NCVACC) has approved standards and procedures to certify veteran chaplains. NCVACC provides mutual support for members working in the VA Chaplain Service, a forum for the study and development of all phases of VA pastoral care. Any VA Catholic chaplain is eligible for membership. The NCVACC also serves as a corporate body for contact and communication with the national Episcopal advisor and archbishop for the Archdiocese for the Military Services, USA.

Certification of members requires the following: the successful completion of two units of Clinical Pastoral Education with comprehensive evaluation by a certified CPE supervisor from an accredited program; a written statement identifying the candidate's theology of team ministry, sacramental ministry, and ecumenism; evidence of updated theological training, such as seminars, diocesan workshops, and other education programs; adherence to a code of ethics that would protect confidentiality; compliance with government regulations regarding discrimination and equity; and compliance with guidelines to ensure ethical practice by professional staff and candidates. Renewal of certification takes place every five years. Meetings for members are usually held annually. The NCVACC has 86 members.

Officers are Rev. James Burnett, President; Rev. Gerard (Damian) Schill, Vice President; Rev. James Stump, OFM Cap.,Treasurer; Rev. Pat Laghazza, ss.cc., Secretary; Rev. Mathew Eraly, Director, Rev. Raymond Lagace OFM, Director, Rev. Martin Smith-Soucier, Director. The Most Rev. Richard B. Higgins, Auxiliary Bishop of the Archdiocese for the Military Services, USA, is the Episcopal Vicar for Veterans Affairs.

State Catholic Conference Organization with Approved Certification Standards and Procedures

The USCCB Subcommittee has approved the certification standards and procedures of the following professional organizations for specialized ministries.

Minnesota Catholic Education Association

475 University Avenue West
Saint Paul, MN 55103-1959

Phone:         651-227-8777
Fax:              651-227-2675
Email:          pnoll@mncc.org
Web:            www.mncatholiced.org

The Minnesota Catholic Education Association (MCEA) has approved standards and procedures to certify parish catechetical leaders and youth ministry leaders. MCEA was established as a Minnesota non-profit corporation in 1994 for the purpose of providing a forum for discussing common ministerial issues for diocesan education and faith formation leaders. The mission of the MCEA's Leadership Forum is to be a voice for lifelong Catholic formation, education, and instruction for the six dioceses of Minnesota. Historically, the challenge always before the Leadership Forum is the question: "What can we do better together than alone?" The MCEA has used this self-imposed challenge in working to develop common certification standards and procedures for the six dioceses of Minnesota; Crookston, Duluth, New Ulm, St. Cloud, St. Paul/Minneapolis, and Winona.

This is the first time that multiple dioceses within a state have collaborated to develop a common certification process for lay ecclesial ministers that utilizes the National Certification Standards for Lay Ecclesial Ministers published by the National Association for Lay Ministry, the National Conference for Catechetical Leadership, and the National Federation for Catholic Youth Ministry. Although there is a common certification process, MCEA does not actually certify lay ecclesial ministers. Rather, the local ordinary within each arch/diocese grants certification to their respective lay ecclesial ministers.

MCEA Board of Directors: Mr. Kent Schmitz, Consultant for Youth Ministry for the Diocese of Saint Cloud (MN); Mr. Jason Adkins, Esq., Executive Director of the Minnesota Catholic Conference; and Dr. Peter Noll, Executive Director of the Minnesota Catholic Education Association.

 

Arch/Diocesan Offices with Approved Certification Standards and Procedures for Certifying Ecclesial Ministers

ILLINOIS

Office for Catechesis and Youth Ministry - Archdiocese of Chicago

3525 S. Lake Park Avenue

Chicago, IL 60653

Phone:       312-534-3700

Fax:            312-534-3801

Email:        OFC@archchicago.org  or msedano@archchicago.org

Web:          www.archchicago.org and www.catechesis-chicago.org

The Office for Catechesis and Youth Ministry (OFCYM) has achieved approval of certification standards and procedures for catechetical leaders serving as directors of religious education, parish and Catholic school coordinators of religious education and parish and Catholic school coordinators of youth ministry. The OFCYM also collaborates with the Office for Lay Ecelesial Ministries responsible for the certification of Pastoral Associates. It is the hope of the OFCYM that by the approval of its certification standards and procedures by the USCCB Subcommittee on Certification for Ecclesial Ministry and Service, the quality of ministry of these catechetical leaders who are devoted to serving the life and mission of the Church in the Archdiocese of Chicago will be enhanced. Kristen Hempstead McGann, Coordinator of Certification and Ministerial Development, oversees the certification process, and Ms. Maria H. Sedano is the Director of the Office for Catechesis and Youth Ministry.

OHIO

Office of Youth and Young Adult MINISTRY - ARCHDIOCESE OF CINCINNATI

100 East Eighth Street

Cincinnati, OH 45202-2150

Phone:        513-421-3131 ext. 330

Fax:             513-421-6271

Email:         sreynolds@catholiccincinnati.org

Web:           www.catholiccincinnati.org/youthmin

The Office of Youth and Young Adult Ministry has approved standards and procedures to certify youth ministry leaders and advanced youth ministry leaders in the Archdiocese of Cincinnati. Committed to Christ and dedicated to young people, the office develops and supports leadership for comprehensive youth ministry and young adult ministry in the faith communities of the Archdiocese. In pursuit of this mission, the office trains and certifies lay ecclesial ministers serving as youth ministry leaders. Sean Reynolds is the Director of the office and oversees the certification process.

 

MICHIGAN

Ministerial Certification, Office of EVANGELIZATION & CATECHESIS - ARCHDIOCESE OF DETROIT

305 Michigan Avenue

Detroit, MI 48226-2605

Phone:       313-237-5904

Fax:            313-237-5867

Email:         ministerialcertification@aod.org

Web:          www.aodonline.org

The Ministerial Certification arm of the Office of Evangelization & Catechesis is responsible for the professional development and leadership of directors of religious formation/parish catechetical leaders, RCIA coordinators, youth ministers, and liturgical music ministers. The Office grants certification to those who extend the above ministries in parishes and who meet the eligibility requirements of the archdiocese and the USCCB/CCA-approved standards and procedures. The Office works closely with the Institute for Ministry at Sacred Heart Major Seminary to provide academic courses and degree programs to prepare catechetical leaders, in addition to providing ministerial core topics focused on individual areas of ministerial certification as listed. Bishop Arturo Cepeda is the Director of the Department of Evangelization, Catechesis, & Schools.

Office of CatechesiS - ROMAN CATHOLIC DIOCESE OF LANSING

300 West Ottawa Street

Lansing, MI 48933-1577

Phone:       517-342-2479

Fax:            517-342-2515

E-mail:       mandrews@dioceseoflansing.org
Web:          http://www.dioceseoflansing.org/Education_Catechesis

The Office of Catechesis has approved standards and procedures to certify parish catechetical leaders. The office collaborates with the Office for Lay Ecclesial Ministry and the Office of Youth Ministry to ensure consistency of a unified certification processes. The office serves parishes and parish catechetical leaders in their ministry of providing effective faith formation programs for adults, teens, and children. The office also promotes the professional development of religious education, directors of adult education, RCIA directors and other catechetical leaders who provide direction for parish adult education/faith formation programs, parish religious education programs, and Catholic schools. This process includes a detailed orientation to ministry, mentoring by veteran catechetical program leaders, and the promotion of spiritual and academic formation for catechetical ministry leaders. This formation process is based on the National Certification Standards for Lay Ecclesial Ministers. Michael Andrews is the Director of the Office of Catechesis.
 

Office of Youth Ministry, Young Adult and Campus Ministry, DIOCESE OF LANSING

300 West Ottawa Street

Lansing, MI 48933-1530

Phone:        517-342-2485

Fax:             517-342-2515

Email:         prinker@dioceseoflansing.org

Web:           www.diocesesoflansing.org

The Office of Youth Ministry has approved standards and procedures to certify coordinators of youth ministry. The office collaborated with the Office of Catechesis and the Office for Lay Ecclesial Ministry to ensure consistency of a unified certification process. The mission of the office is to provide leadership training and formation for youth ministry leaders, especially coordinators of youth ministry. This formation process is based on the National Certification Standards for Lay Ecclesial Ministers. The office is committed to providing formation, so that youth will be served by competent ministers who are prepared to serve the varied needs of our youth and to minister to and with them. Patrick Rinker is the Director of the Office of Youth Ministry.

Office for Lay Ecclesial Ministry - Diocese of Lansing

228 N. Walnut Street

Lansing, MI 48933-1530

Phone:      517-342-2512

Fax:           517-342-2468

E-mail:      damato@dioceseoflansing.org

Web:         www.dioceseoflansing.org

The Diocese of Lansing through the Office for Lay Ecclesial Ministry provides certification for Catechetical Leaders, Pastoral Associates, Ministers and Coordinators, Youth Ministers and Adult Faith Formation Leaders. In collaboration with the Offices of Catechesis and Youth Ministry, a consistent, unified process is provided. Although all are called by virtue of baptism to share in the saving mission of Jesus Christ, some are also called to serve in ecclesial leadership. The office of Lay Ecclesial Ministry provides various formation opportunities which include pastoral and theological study, spiritual direction and reflection, development of pastoral skills, and processes to facilitate integration of the various formation components. The office also provides ongoing formation and professional development for lay ecclesial ministers serving in a variety of ministries. Deborah Amato is Director of the office and oversees the certification process.

TEXAS

Office of Evangelization and catechesis - Archdiocese of Galveston-Houston

2403 Holcombe Blvd.
Houston, TX 77021

Phone:      713-741-8790
Fax:           713-741-8775
E-mail:      jblevins@archgh.org
Web:         www.archgh.org/oec

The Office of Evangelization and Catechesis has received initial approval of their certification standards and procedures to certify Parish Catechetical Leaders. Those leaders who have completed Basic Formation for Catechetical Leadership/Formación Básica para Líderazgo Catequético or an equivalent, have practical experience in catechetical leadership, and have full Catechist Certification or its equivalent, are candidates for this certification. Those called to this ministry who desire continuing formation in a program designed specifically for professional Parish Catechetical Leaders are strongly encouraged to attend the archdiocesan Catechetical Leadership Institute. This Institute consists of two years of formation within which participants develop the following: an understanding of the code of ethics for professional catechetical ministers; the necessary skills to minister in an inclusive, intercultural church and diocese; knowledge of how to apply catechetical leadership skills through an active process which includes prayer, reflection, fellowship, and networking with other catechetical leaders; the experience of being mentored; and participation in a practicum process each year. The Archdiocese is committed to the formation of catechetical leaders and is responding to a two-fold call: a national call for competent parish catechetical leaders and a local call from the catechetical leaders to be recognized through meeting national standards and all certification requirements of the archdiocese.

Julie Blevins is the Director of the Office of Evangelization and Catechesis. Gerardo Salazar is the Associate Director responsible for formation programs for Parish Catechetical Leaders in Galveston-Houston's Spanish speaking communities and Kathleen Kelley is the Associate Director responsible for the English speaking community. She also oversees the certification process of parish catechetical leaders.

Office of Adolescent catechesis and evangelization - Archdiocese of Galveston-Houston

2403 Holcombe Boulevard

Houston, TX 77021-2023

Phone:      713-741-8723
Fax:           713-741-8775
Email:        bjohnson@archgh.org
Web:         www.archgh.org

The Office of Adolescent Catechesis and Evangelization, formerly the Office of Youth Ministry, department is rooted in Christ and guided by the Holy Spirit through Sacred Scripture and Tradition. This ministry cultivates a comprehensive Catholic youth ministry to, with, by and for adolescents within the context of lifelong faith formation in collaboration with parishes and archdiocesan offices. Initial approval of certification standards and procedures to certify youth ministry leaders occurred in 2005.

Youth ministry leaders are devoted to serving the life and mission of the church through ministry to adolescents and are committed to growth in discipleship and service. As stated in the National Certification Standards for Lay Ecclesial Ministers, certification serves three goals: to give direction to the future of youth ministry, to recognize and affirm those persons already in ministry, and to promote faithful, competent, and accountable lay ecclesial ministry. The office offers formation and support of leadership for comprehensive youth ministry as articulated in Renewing the Vision: A Framework for Catholic Youth Ministry. The formation process, rooted in Catholic tradition, focuses on the specialized training of knowledge and skills for meeting the needs of all youth and for recruiting, training, and supervising volunteers. Brian Johnson is the Director of the department. Norma Torok is Associate Director responsible for formation programs for youth ministry leaders in Galveston-Houston's Spanish and English speaking communities. She also oversees the certification process of those leaders.

Arch/Diocesan Offices Preparing for Approval of Certification Standards and Procedures

GEORGIA

Office of Religious Education and the Office of Youth and Young Adult Ministry - Diocese of Savannah

601 East Liberty Street
Savannah, GA 31401-5196

Phone:      912-201-41057
Fax:            912-201-4101
Email:        apinckney@diosav.org
                   dboucher@diosav.org
Web:          www.diosav.org/oyyam    

The Office of Religious Education (ORE) and the Office of Youth and Young Adult Ministries (OYYAM) are seeking initial approval of their certification standards and procedures for Catechetical Leaders and Advanced Youth Ministry Leaders. The ORE is driven by the mission of total education and formation of catechetical leaders and advanced youth ministry leaders, who will contribute to shaping the future of Christianity in the Catholic tradition. The OYYAM provides leadership in research, development and coordination of youth and young adult ministry programming for the Diocese of Savannah.

The Offices have a fervent desire to recognize and empower these specialized ecclesial ministers, by providing for them comprehensive training that not only equips them for ministry, but authenticates their calling to serve Christ. The ORE and OYYAM are working together to provide innovative, relational leadership and support by seeking approval of certification standards and procedures whereby these catechetical leaders and advanced youth ministry leaders can be certified. Ann Pinckney is the Director of ORE and Don Boucher is the Director of OYYAM.

ILLINOIS

Office of Catechetics - Diocese of Peoria

613 NE Jefferson
Peoria, IL 61603-3841

Phone:       309-671-1568 Ext. 236
Fax:            309-675-9005
Email:        dgrandon@cdop.org
Web:          www.cdop.org

The Office of Catechetics is seeking initial approval of certification standards and procedures for parish catechetical leaders. The office is responsible for the professional development of parish catechetical leaders and for ensuring that each parish has a quality catechetical program which successfully passes the faith on to parishioners of all ages. Toward this end, the office conducts an annual Summer Catechetical Institute, holds regular regional meetings with parish catechetical leaders, publishes a monthly newsletter, and offers speakers for in-services. Laura Barron is the Coordinator of Catechetical Administration, and Dr. Douglas Grandon is the Director of the Office of Catechetics that oversees the certification of parish catechetical leaders.
 
MASSACHUSETTS

Office of Religions Education  - Diocese of Worcester

49 Elm Street
Worcester, MA 01609-2514

Phone:      508-929-4306
Fax:           508-753-7180
Email:       emarcil@worcesterdiocese.org
Web:         www.worcesterdiocese.org

The Office of Religious Education is seeking initial approval for certification standards and procedures for parish DRE's, CRE's, and ARE's and is committed to the recognition and professional development of parish catechetical leaders. The office worked closely with Anna Maria College, Paxton, MA in the development of its MA in Pastoral Ministry and continues to partner with the college. The office partners with the University of Dayton VLCFF program and also offers courses on the local level to encourage the certification of ARE's and CRE's. Ms. Elizabeth A. Marcil is the Director of the Office of Religious Education and oversees the standards and procedures for the certification of Parish Catechetical Leaders in the Diocese of Worcester. Ms. Barbara Ramian, Associate Director of the Office of Religious Education administers the process.

MICHIGAN

Office of Christian Worship - Archdiocese of Detroit

305 Michigan Avenue
Detroit, MI 48226-2605

Phone:      313-237-5932
Fax:           313-237-5869
Email:       canter.louis@aod.org

The Pastoral Musician Certification process is connected to the Office for Christian Worship in the Department of Parish Life and Services. The office was strongly urged by the Department Director to develop a Certification Program for Pastoral Musicians for the Archdiocese of Detroit. The Worship Office as do other diocesan offices became integrated into the certification process of the Archdiocese which is directly connected to the United States Conference of Catholic Bishops Commission on Certification and Accreditation, (USCCB/CCA). The Worship Office works directly with the Certification Review Board to grant local certification for pastoral ministries utilizing the approved standards, procedures and national standards and competencies. In addition, musical competencies and experience are reviewed along with the theological competencies.

In addition the Worship Office provides ongoing formation for professional ecclesial ministers through conferences, workshops, and basic topic courses that the Worship Office develops and sponsors. It also links efforts with other diocesan offices and with the Catholic seminaries, universities and colleges in the geographic area and beyond for degree and certificate opportunities. The process has its own board with its members represented at the Certification Board for the Archdiocese of Detroit. Louis Canter is the director of this program working collaboratively with Daniel McAfee, Director of the Office for Christian Worship.
 
NEW JERSEY

Office of Religious Education - Diocese of Metuchen

146 Metlars Lane
Piscataway, NJ 08854-4303

Phone:      732-562-1990 Ext. 1310
Fax:           732-562-1016
Email:        pmartin@diometuchen.org
Web:         www.diometuchen.org

The Office of Religious Education is seeking initial approval for certification standards and procedures for parish catechetical leaders and is committed to the recognition and professional development of parish catechetical leaders. The office works closely with Providence College, Rhode Island, to provide the on-line academic courses to prepare catechetical leaders while providing administrative components in courses sponsored by the diocese. Msgr. Michael J. Corona is the Interim Director of the Office of Religious Education and oversees the standards and procedures for the certification of Parish Catechetical Leaders in the Diocese of Metuchen. Pat Martin is the administrative assistant.

NORTH CAROLINA

Office for Youth Ministry - Diocese of Charlotte, North Carolina

1123 South Church Street

Charlotte, NC 28203-4003

Phone:      704-370-3359 or 704-370-3211
Fax:            704-370-3291
Email:        PJKYM@charlottediocese.org
Web:          www.Charlottediocese.org

The Office for Youth Ministry is seeking initial approval of its certification standards and procedures for youth ministry leaders. Committed to excellence in ministry, the office has adopted nationally approved certification standards and developed diocesan procedures to certify youth ministry leaders. Actualizing the office mission, the office is dedicated to the development and support of youth ministry leaders as the work of the office enhances their professional knowledge and ministerial abilities. The office employs a variety of formational programs from within the diocese and institutions of higher learning. The office works to assist youth ministry leaders toward excellence in ministry to, for, and with God's people, the Church. Paul Joseph Kotlowski is the Director of the office and Peg Ruble, Associate Director, oversees the development of the certification standards and procedures for youth ministry leaders.