Lay Ministry

The number of laity responding to God's call to ministry is increasing, lay women and men have become an integral part of the life and mission of St. Peter's Seminary.  Enrolled in either of the two degree programs being offered, our lay students are prepared for ministry in parishes, hospitals, schools, or wherever God is calling them to serve.

The Master of Divinity (M.Div.) and the Master of Theological Studies (M.T.S.) Programs, offered at St. Peter's Seminary, focus on the development of the whole person - human, intellectual, spiritual, and pastoral.  Alongside the seminarians and in the spirit of co-responsible ministry, the lay students are challenged to enter into dialogue as they enhance their competency in scripture, liturgy, canon law, and other areas of theology.  Women and men enrolled in the M. Div. program are provided with the opportunity to gain practical ministry experience through field placements in schools, parishes, healthcare institutions, and social outreach institutions with which the Seminary has partnered.  St. Peter's is a fully accredited member of the  Association of Theological Schools.

In 2023, the CCCB Episcopal Commission for Evangelization and Catechesis (ECEC) met with representatives of nine institutions (members of the Association of Catholic Colleges and Universities (ACCUC) and Canadian Catholic seminaries) to discuss their lay formation programs.  As a result, the Office for Evangelization and Catechesis created an information resource bank with a list of lay formation programs and research projects that are offered at these Catholic institutions of higher learning.  Click here for an overview of the adult formation programs offered by Canadian Catholic Universities, Colleges and Seminaries.

"Being able to complete my Masters of Divinity Degree at St. Peter's Seminary was a wonderful opportunity.  Being in a Catholic educational environment, St. Peter's Seminary allowed me to fully explore not only the doctrines but also the spirit of my faith.  I can honestly say that each course provided interesting insights and valuable knowledge which will significantly impact my future ministry.  As a final thougth, the relationships I formed with my classmates and professors have given me great hope for the future as well as a strong community to access if I ever need spiritual guidance.  These three years have been a blessing that I will cherish throughout my career and my walk."

 

Dominica Julia Wozniak, M.Div. ('15)