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(fka Ecclesial Lay Ministry):
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University of Notre
Dame Theology Courses:
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Ecclesial Lay Ministry Program

The Ecclesial Lay Ministry (ELM) Program is the foundational formation program for laity serving in ministry in the diocese. The formation program consists of the following three components: Academic Theology Courses (10); Pastoral and Professional Skills Workshops (14); and Spiritual Formation Assessment and Development.

The ELM program is offered at sites in each of the six deaneries of the Diocese of Lafayette-in-Indiana, in cooperation with Saint Joseph's College, Rensselaer, who governs and oversees the academic portion of the program.

Laity who complete the program will have:

  • attained a basic knowledge of the Church's teachings and traditions;
  • acquired pastoral and professional skills that will assist them in their ministry; and
  • participated in a spiritual formation process to develop their own prayer life, and to strengthen their communal worship and experience of God in daily life.

    • In addition to the degree program, the Ecclesial Lay Ministry program offers a certification option as well as an equivalency option for advanced degreed and experienced individuals interested in serving in ministry in the diocese. For information on these tracks, please contact the ELM office.

    The ministries of our diocese and this web site are made possible through the generosity of Fruitful Harvest donors. Thank you!

    ©2007 Diocese of Lafayette-in-Indiana