Theology for Ministry

“Lay ecclesial ministers engage in theological study for the sake of a broadened and deepened faith and a better-grounded and informed ministry.”

                                                      -- USCCB document: Co-Workers in the Vineyard of the Lord: A
                                                         Resource for Guiding the Development of Lay Ecclesial Ministry

Diocesan Partners

The Diocese of Richmond has formed partnerships with accredited Catholic institutions to make formation affordable and accessible to lay leaders. Our partnership with University of Dayton’s Virtual Learning Community enables lay leaders to earn online certificates of study with CEUs in Catechesis; Adult Faith Formation; Leadership Ministry; and Youth Ministry at reduced rates -- right from your own home! In addition, our partnership with St. Leo University enables lay leaders to earn a bachelor’s degree in Religion or a Master’s degree in Theology at a lower cost and without traveling out of state.

University of DaytonUniversity of Dayton Online Theology Courses

University of Dayton on-line theology courses are offered throughout the year, last five weeks and cost $40 per course. Parish and ministry leaders can take advantage of this opportunity to both deepen their personal faith and their understanding of the Catholic tradition. Select individual courses of interest or enroll in a Certificate Program and follow a specific curriculum.

St. LeoSt. Leo Degrees in Religion and Theology

Earn a Bachelor’s Degree in Religion or an M.A. Degree in Theology from St. Leo University. Classes are available online and in classroom at the Diocesan Pastoral Center in Richmond and St. Leo’s Chesapeake location.

Distance LearningDistance-learning programs at accredited Catholic institutions

The United States Conference of Catholic Bishops (USCCB) has surveyed all accredited Catholic colleges, university, seminaries and schools of theology which offer classes to lay people through distance learning. In some cases, programs are offered at alternate sites beyond the academic institution’s campus. In other cases, programs are offered via the internet, sometimes utilizing video, real-time sessions, and email discussions. All of these distance learning options enable students living far from the campus to access the educational resources.  

  • For information on accredited Catholic Universities and schools of theology, visit ActiveParishioner.com