What is the Ecclesial Lay Ministry Program?

ELM is the name of the program chosen by the diocese for its lay ministry formation program.

What is the Lay Ministry Formation Program?

Basic formation for lay ministers in the diocese is done through the ELM program. The program has three components: spiritual, academic, and pastoral.

What is involved in each component?

The program brochure for the ELM program describes each component in detail. Included in the brochure are descriptions of the academic/theological courses, guidelines for spiritual formation, and specific knowledge covered in the pastoral/professional skills workshops.

How will lay ministry formation improve ministry in the diocese?

Those who complete the ELM program will have a basic knowledge of the church's teachings and traditions as a basis for their ministry. They will have participated in a spiritual formation process to develop their own prayer and experience of God, personally and communally. Finally, they will have acquired pastoral skills that will assist them to minister effectively among God's people.

For whom is the Ecclesial Lay Ministry Program intended?

The primary audience is lay ecclesial ministers, those who work for the church in a formal way for at least 20 hours per week, regardless of compensation. However, any layperson can benefit from participation in the Ecclesial Lay Ministry program.

What is the relationship between the Diocese of Lafayette-in-Indiana and Saint Joseph's College?

The Diocese of Lafayette-in-Indiana developed the components of its Ecclesial Lay Ministry program in collaboration with the Archdiocese of Indianapolis and the dioceses of Evansville and Gary. Each diocese chose its own provider to offer the components of the program. the Diocese of Lafayette-in-Indiana chose Saint Joseph's College to offer the academic/theological component of the program.

Where are the ELM components being offered?

The ELM program's academic classes and pastoral/professional skills workshops are currently available at sites in the Carmel Deanery (St. Alphonsus, Zionsville and Our Lady of Mt. Carmel, Carmel), the Fowler Deanery (St. Joseph's College, Rensselaer), the Lafayette Deanery (St. Elizabeth's School of Nursing, Lafayette), the Logansport Deanery (St. Joan of Arc, Kokomo) and the Muncie Deanery (St. Francis of Assisi, Muncie).

How does an individual sign up for the program?

An individual may apply for admission to the ELM program by requesting an application packet from the ELM Office, Catholic Pastoral Center, 2300 S. 9th St., Lafayette, IN 47909-2400. Questions or requests for additional information should be addressed to Linda Harmon at (765) 474-6644 or 800-544-1684 or by email to Linda Harmon.

Who pays for ELM courses and workshops?

The manner of payment - by the individual, by parish, or a combination of both - is determined during the application process. Limited scholarship money is available. Persons who are already involved in parish ministry and who have demonstrated a commitment to serving as ecclesial ministers will be given priority.

Who takes ELM courses and workshops?

Individuals already involved in lay ecclesial ministry (working for their parish in a formal way) and others who are interested in learning more about their faith may enroll in courses and workshops. There is a difference in the cost of workshops and courses for those not formally enrolled in the ELM program or those seeking academic credit.

Is the ELM program a degree program?

A person holding a college degree in any field may earn a second baccalaureate degree in Lay Ecclesial Ministry from St. Joseph's College by successfully completing the 20 credit hours of theology in the Ecclesial Lay Ministry Program plus 7 credit hours from the pastoral skills plus an additional 9 credit hours in theology. A total of 36 credit hours is needed for the degree.

What aspects of ministry formation are not offered through ELM?

Knowledge and skills needed for specific ministries (methodology for catechetical leadership, keyboard for music ministry, accounting for business administration, etc) are not offered through this program.

Is the ELM program required for those involved in lay ministry in the diocese?

The program was endorsed by Bishop William L. Higi and the other collaborating (arch)bishops as the basic preparation for lay ministry in their respective dioceses. Presently the expectation is that by 2007 all lay ecclesial ministers would have completed this program.

Is everyone required to complete the entire ELM program?

No. Many lay ministers have prior theological education, professional experience in ministry, and solid spiritual formation. No one is required to duplicate his or her previous preparation. Lay ministers may request an evaluation of their credentials to receive an equivalency Ecclesial Lay Ministry certification, thus making them eligible to be deputized for service in the diocese.

Are there alternatives to the ELM program?

Undergraduate and graduate programs in theology and pastoral ministry offered by colleges, universities, and seminaries provide solid preparation for lay ecclesial ministry, but they do not necessarily fulfill all of the requirements of the ELM program in our diocese. Individuals inquiring about the ELM program or any preparation for lay ministry should be advised about the best path for them.

How can lay ministers find out what he or she need to do?

Individuals should consult their pastor for formation guidance. Pastors and individuals may also consult the ELM program director for guidance and information about ministry formation in the diocese and elsewhere.

How long will it take to complete the ELM program?

That depends on how much of the program an individual needs and how steadily an individual works on the process. It is estimated that it will take three and one-half years to complete the three components of the ELM program.