What is the Institute?
The Institute’s core program is a three-year course of studies which provides a foundation in Catholic theology, spirituality, education and training in leadership.
Foundational to the Institute is that all are called by virtue of baptism, to use our gifts to build the Reign of God. Those whose talents include the ability to lead must be theologically trained and pastorally formed. The Institute has trained individuals for leadership in the Diocese of San Jose since 1997.
In addition to the core program, the Institute shares the responsibility for the Advanced Lay Leadership Formation and the training and formation of Permanent Deacons.
Why lay leadership?
The Second Vatican Council called for the full and active participation of the faithful. In his apostolic exhortation Christifidelis Laici (January 1989), Pope John Paul II writes: “the lay faithful must take an active, conscious, and responsible part in the mission of the Church.” The Institute for Leadership in Ministry serves to prepare members of the Catholic laity from the Diocese of San Jose for leadership in the Church.