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Bishop approves creation of Institute of Missionary Discipleship
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Whether you learn best at at 2 a.m. sitting at your laptop or within a group setting with live discussion, an innovative and new diocesan faith formation institute offers a course for your learning style. The diocesan Institute of Missionary Discipleship (IMD), launched this past August, offers an array of courses, classes and retreats for those looking to deepen their faith knowledge and grow in their spirituality.
The institute is the brainchild of Jamin Herold, executive director, Parish Life and Lay Leadership for the diocese. Herold, with the approval of Bishop Bradley, has designed an institute that brings together, under one learning umbrella, day trainings, seminars, a catechetical institute in partnership with Francisican University and ministry-specific trainings.
The institute will operate “much more like a college-type setting not just a singular program,” noted Herold. “Any volunteer wanting to dive deeper in his or her faith will find a course or program that is suited to them.”
Day trainings
The institute will offer a six- hour day offered throughout the year. Topics planned include: Introduction to Missionary Discipleship, Called and Gifted, Discernment of Spirits and Art of Accompaniment. Each day will feature expert speakers.
Seminars
Qualified local instructors will lead up to eight different seminars throughout the year. Planned topics range from Intercultural Ministry and Risk Management to Identifying Gifts in Others.
Online courses
The diocese, in partnership with Franciscan University, will offer online courses. The university is now uploading multiple courses and is adding up to 80 courses a year, with a total goal of more than 600 offerings. The courses are divided by tracks but are suited for both individuals and parish ministers. Visit www.Imdisciple.com for registration instructions.
And the cost?
“All the online courses are free to participants,” said Herold. The Institute’s offerings are supported by the financial gifts to the Bishop’s Annual Appeal.
The Institute of Missionary Discipleship offered its first day training course this past August- The Art of Accompaniment in conjunction with Burning Hearts Disciples.
