Office of Lay Ecclesial Ministry. Diocese of Lansing. Third Edition Approved:

Transcription

1 Ministry Certification Handbook for Catechetical Leaders, Pastoral Associates, Pastoral Ministers, Pastoral Coordinators, Youth Ministry Leaders, Directors of Worship, Directors of Music Ministries Office of Lay Ecclesial Ministry Diocese of Lansing 2014 Third Edition Approved:

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3 Certification Manual Table of Contents Section 1.0 Certification by the Diocesan Office Purpose of the Certification Handbook Diocesan Directives Regarding Certification History and Mission of the Office Relationship of the Office to the United States Conference of Catholic Bishops Subcommittee on Certification for Ecclesial Ministry and Service Periodic Review of the Certification Handbook... 8 Section 2.0 Benefits of Certification To the Catholic Church in the United States To Provinces, Regions and State Catholic Conferences To the Diocese of Lansing To Academic Institutions To Mentors of Candidates To Specialized Lay Ecclesial Ministers To Agencies, Institutions and Parish Communities... 9 Section 3.0 Eligibility Requirements for Certification Verification of Reception of the Sacraments of Christian Initiation Registration and Participation in the Life of a Parish Community Verification of Diocesan Formation Requirements Assessment of Formal Education Requirements Employment in Ministry Adherence to a Code of Ethics Participation in Required Diocesan Workshops Participation in Professional Organization(s) Participation in Ministerial Support Group Criteria for Safe Environment Section 4.0 Certification Standards Standard One: Human Standard Two: Spiritual Standard Three: Intellectual Standard Four: Pastoral P a g e

4 Diocese of Lansing Section 5.0 Process for Initial Certification Requesting and Completing an Application Form Meeting Eligibility Requirements Participating in a Mentoring Process Meeting with Interviewers Consideration by the Combined Ministries Certification Review Board Submitting a Portfolio Conducting a Ministry Practicum Participating in an Interview Process Assessing the Documents and Competencies of Candidates Celebrating the Conferral of Initial Certification Section 6.0 Process for Renewal of Certification Notifying Candidates Applying for Renewal Fulfilling Ongoing Requirements for Renewing Certification Meeting with Interviewers/Peers Who Have Been Certified Consideration by the Certification Committee/Commission/Board Assessing Requirements and Competencies Recommending Candidates for Renewal of Certification Celebrating the Conferral of Renewal of Certification Section 7.0 Roles of Those Involved in the Assessment Process The Combined Ministries Certification Review Board The Standards Committee The Appeals Committee The Office Director and Staff Role of Mentors Role of Interviewers Section 8.0 Withdrawal of Certification Criteria Process Notification to the Local Ordinary and Pastor of Employment Section 9.0 Appealing an Adverse Certification Decision Application Form and Letter Meeting Relating the Committee Decision Section 10.0 Certification Records P a g e

5 Certification Manual 10.1 Policy Contents of Files Request to Review Files Retention of Files Section 11.0 Appendices Section 12.0 USCCB Approval for the Certification Handbook P a g e

6 Diocese of Lansing Introduction Section 1.0 Certification by the Diocesan Office 1.1 Purpose of the Certification Handbook The information provided in this certification handbook will assist the lay minister in determining whether they are eligible for certification, how to apply for certification, and how certification will be granted. All forms necessary for the certification process are available as appendices to this document, on the diocesan website or by contacting the Director of the Office of Lay Ministry Diocesan Directives Regarding Certification Certification from the Diocese of Lansing is not automatically portable to another arch/diocese. Likewise, the Diocese of Lansing does not automatically recognize certification from other arch/dioceses. Only those certifications granted through a certification process which has been approved by the USCCB Subcommittee on Certification for Ecclesial Ministry and Service will be considered portable to the Diocese of Lansing. A lay minister granted certification in a specific specialized ministry has demonstrated to the Combined Ministries Certification Review Board that they have attained a certain level of competency or are working towards a level of competency 2 as outlined in the National Certification Standards developed by the Alliance for the Certification of Lay Ecclesial Ministers and approved by the USCCB Subcommittee on Certification. 3 Certification does not imply that the lay minister has been deputed to serve in a particular role or office within the diocese nor does it imply any particular authorization. Authorization is recognized within the diocese of Lansing through the Rite of Commissioning. 1.3 History and Mission of the Office In the late 1980 s diocesan leaders identified the development of lay ministry leaders as a growing need within the diocese. The idea of creating an Office for Lay Ministries to direct and promote lay ministry formation was endorsed by Bishop Povish and the Diocesan Pastoral Council. In October, 1987, Father Robert McGraw, Chairman of the Department of Pastoral Formation appointed Mary Tardif as the Director of the Office for Lay Ministries. Her responsibilities included: The Diocese of Lansing has three levels of certification: basic, intermediate and advance. Basic and intermediate certification recognizes that a lay minister is working towards the completion of the Ministry Formation Requirements for the diocese. They are meant to encourage lay ministers to continue the formation process. 3 In October 2011, the Committee on Certification and Accreditation of the United States Conference of Catholic Bishops (USCCB/CCA) granted approval of the national certification standards and procedures for a period of seven years. 6 P a g e

7 Certification Manual Establish a liaison between the diocese and the Professional Pastoral Ministers Association Establish and coordinate regional ministry training programs for parish volunteers Establish, in conjunction with the Office of Permanent Deacons, a formation and education program for pastoral leaders, and Coordinate a certification process for lay and religious ministers in the diocese The Program for Theological Studies, for undergraduate students, was launched in August, 1995, by Siena Heights University. Under the direction of Sr. Jodie Screes, OP, five class sites were established throughout the various regions of the diocese. In 1989, a detailed certification system for Directors of Religious Education and other Catechetical Leaders was enacted. In 1996, the Rite for Commissioning Lay Ecclesial Ministers was established. A Combined Ministries Certification Review Board was established in This board has overseen the certification for Catechetical Leaders, Pastoral Ministers, and Coordinators of Youth Ministry. The first round of certifications was completed in fall The second edition of Standards and Procedures for the Certification of Lay Ecclesial Ministers in the Specialized areas of: Catechetical Leader, Pastoral Associate, Pastoral Coordinator, Pastoral Minister and Youth Ministry Leader was approved by the USCCB/CCA October This approval is good for seven years. The Diocese of Lansing has certified a total of 64 people and awarded over 120 certificates since the inception of the certification process. The Office for Lay Ministries also established a Rite for Commissioning Lay Ecclesial Ministers. In 1996, after his installation as the fourth Bishop of Lansing, Bishop Carl F. Mengeling endorsed the Ministry Formation Program, continued the practice of commissioning lay ecclesial ministers and modified the Rite. Both the Rite of Commissioning and the Combined Ministries Certification process continue to receive ecclesial support under the current ordinary, Bishop Earl Boyea. 1.4 Relationship of the Office to the United States Conference of Catholic Bishops Subcommittee on Certification for Ecclesial Ministry and Service The standards for certification reflect competency gained through formation in the four pillars as articulated in the USCCB document, Co-Workers in the Vineyard of the Lord (2005) and reflect the National Certification Standards for Lay Ecclesial Ministers (2011 edition). 4 The standards listed in the National Standards for Lay Ecclesial Ministers were developed by the Alliance for the Certification of Lay Ministers (ACLEM) and approved by the USCCB Commission on Certification and Accreditation in Recognition and approval of the diocesan certification process by the USCCB subcommittee on certification for ecclesial ministry and service ensures continuity in 4 Available for download at 7 P a g e

8 Diocese of Lansing formation and competency of lay ministers. The local church welcomes the oversight and efforts of the USCCB subcommittee to provide high standards of competency for lay men and women serving in leadership roles. This oversight and continuity should lead to greater portability of certification from one diocese to another. 1.5 Periodic Review of the Certification Handbook This handbook has been reviewed by the USCCB Subcommittee as part of the approval of the diocesan certification standards and procedures. After an initial sevenyear approval of certification standards and procedures by the Subcommittee, the Office of Lay Ministry has submitted certification standards and procedures as they have been evaluated and revised by the Combined Ministries Certification Review Board. The Office of Lay Ministry also submits annual reports to the Subcommittee that describe the developments and changes in certification standards and procedures and any diocesan changes as they have occurred during the calendar year. Each applicant to the certification process has been asked to submit a short evaluation of the process which will be reviewed by the Combined Ministries Certification Review Board. Once per calendar year, the CMCRB will review the evaluations to determine if any revisions or clarifications are necessary. Changes and revisions are submitted to the USCCB Subcommittee as part of the annual report. Section 2.0 Benefits of Certification Lay persons who devote themselves permanently or temporarily to some special service of the Church are obliged to acquire appropriate formation which is required to fulfill their function properly and to carry it out conscientiously, zealously, and diligently. (Code of Canon Law, 231 1; Co-Workers, p.33) 5 This section will briefly present some of the benefits of certification to various entities ranging from the Catholic Church in the United States to the local parish community. A comprehensive presentation of the benefits as outlined by the USCCB subcommittee can be found on the website at To the Catholic Church in the United States - Helps the Catholic Church to comply with the norms and guidelines for formation stated in Code of Canon Law, Collaborative efforts of certification across dioceses ensure a certain level of continuity and quality in lay ministry formation processes. 2.2 To Provinces, Regions and State Catholic Conferences - Consistent certification standards and the certification of lay ecclesial ministers increases the confidence that lay ecclesial ministers transferring from one diocese to another are in compliance with formation standards. - As approval of certification processes by the USCCB becomes more prevalent, lay ecclesial certification becomes more portable from one diocese to another. 5 Select Ministry Formation Bulletin. 8 P a g e

9 Certification Manual 2.3 To the Diocese of Lansing - Enables diocesan officials to formally identify and authorize lay women and men for key positions and major leadership roles for specialized ecclesial ministry - The availability of lay certification encourages every lay ecclesial minister to strive for continued growth 2.4 To Academic Institutions - The certification process enhances collaboration with academic institutions who provide for the intellectual formation of lay ecclesial ministers - Certification standards provide a framework for the university to develop curriculum 2.5 To Mentors of Candidates - Mentors benefit from certification by being afforded the opportunity to pass on their wisdom, knowledge and passion for service within the body of Christ - Establishing the mentoring relationship helps to curb burnout on both sides of the relationship; burnout on the part of the new minister when experience does not match expectation; burnout on the part of the experienced lay minister when discouragement sets in as can happen occasionally 2.6 To Specialized Lay Ecclesial Ministers - Certification recognizes and validates the specific vocation of Lay Ecclesial Ministers - Lay Ecclesial Ministers are recognized as professional and competent in their particular area of specialization - The lay minister is challenged to greater authenticity and integrity through the certification process - Certification provides the lay minister an opportunity to engage in self-reflection and self-analysis which reinforces the need for lifelong habits of formation and balance 2.7 To Agencies, Institutions and Parish Communities - Using the certification process, the diocesan staff can be a benefit to Pastors and Pastoral Supervisors by identifying lay ecclesial ministers with specialized competencies when the need arises - The certification process benefits Pastors and Pastoral leadership by providing fair, balanced and high-quality formation standards by which to measure every lay minister serving within the church Section 3.0 Eligibility Requirements for Certification Ministry leaders are eligible for Ministry Certification when they meet the following requirements: The minister is a fully initiated or received, practicing Catholic, in good standing 6 The minister has a minimum of three years of full time experience (minimum 30 6 Diocese of Lansing Policy Manual: Section Competency & Eligibility for Lay Ecclesial Ministry 9 P a g e

10 Diocese of Lansing hrs. /week) or six years of part-time (min. 15 hrs. /week), serving as a program leader in a specialized area of ministry. 7 At least one full year or two part-times years of employment must be served within the Diocese of Lansing. Participation in the diocesan Ministry Formation Program is required. 8 The minister has completed at least 18 academic credit hours in the diocesan sponsored academic theology program (or an equivalent program as specified by the Office of Lay Ministry) The minister has cleared all safe environment checks. 9 The minister has a Pastor s endorsement/authorization to serve as a public minister. A recommendation/observation form is required (Appendix 11.0 C). 3.1 Verification of Reception of the Sacraments of Christian Initiation A baptismal certificate with notation of all sacraments received must be submitted to the Office of Lay Ministry as part of the application process. The certificate must be an original copy containing a seal and must be issued within the six months prior to the beginning of the certification process. It is expected that the candidate for certification has received all three sacraments of initiation. 3.2 Registration and Participation in the Life of a Parish Community It is expected that the certification candidate is an active member of a parish community within the diocese of Lansing Verification of a Catholic Marriage Verification of a Catholic Marriage for those lay ministers who are married will be noted on most baptismal certificates. If this is not noted for some reason, other documentation will be required to substantiate the certification candidate was married within the church or has had their marriage blessed by the church Adult Converts to Catholicism While we welcome and applaud all converts to the Catholic Church, we also recognize that conversion and maturity as a Catholic continues to grow even after initiation or reception into the Catholic family. Therefore, candidates should be members of the Catholic Church for at least 5 years before applying for certification. 3.3 Verification of Diocesan Formation Requirements The USCCB Subcommittee has approved a three-tiered certification process in the Diocese of Lansing. Certification in the basic or intermediate levels recognizes the candidate has achieved certain milestones in competency while also encourages the candidate to continue on-going formation. The applicant s current completed 7 Pastoral Associate, Pastoral Minister, Catechetical Leader, Leader of Youth Ministry, Director of Worship, Director of Music Ministries. 8 See diocesan website for additional information: 9 Diocese of Lansing Policy Manual: Section Norms to Protect the Good of Persons and the Common Good 10 P a g e

11 Certification Manual intellectual formation will dictate which level of certification they may request. The three USCCB approved levels are: Level 3 Basic Level 4 Intermediate Level 5 Advanced 10 In cases where the lay minister is serving in more than one specialized ministry, the Combined Ministries Certification process allows the candidate to seek more than one certification. Those seeking multiple certifications must meet all the requirements of each specialized ministry area. Candidates seeking certification must be registered in the Ministry Formation Program offered through the Diocese of Lansing. 11 This opens a file with the Office of Lay Ministry where participation in all formation activities will be logged. Certification candidates must meet the minimum requirements for formation as defined by the Ministry Formation Program. Below are listed the requirements in general that are expected at each of the three certification levels. Basic Certification Level Three Those seeking certification at the basic level should have at least eighteen credit hours in theology; a level of education equivalent to an academic undergraduate minor in pastoral theology /religious studies. An annual review meeting with the Director of Lay Ministry is required to review formation. They must attend at least one overnight retreat each year (as a participant, not as a leader). They should at a minimum be pursuing a regular Spiritual Director. Intermediate Certification Level Four Intermediate level certification requires thirty-six credit hours in theological study; a level of education equivalent to an academic undergraduate major in pastoral theology/religious studies. An annual review meeting with the Director of Lay Ministry is required. Those seeking certification at the intermediate level should be seeing a Spiritual Director at least periodically. They must be attending at least one overnight retreat each year (as a participant, not as a leader). Advanced Certification Level Five Those at an advanced certification level should have completed some graduate work (36 graduate credits or more), in pastoral theology. Advanced level certification requires regular Spiritual Direction. They must be attending at least one overnight retreat each year (as a participant, not as a leader). Those requesting Advanced Certification must show evidence of involvement at a regional and/or diocesan level such as serving on an advisory committee or attendance at regional meetings. 10 Two additional provisional certifications are provided through the appropriate diocesan office for emerging lay leaders. Details about these certifications can be found on the diocesan website. These provisional certifications are not approved by the USCCB/CCA. 11 See diocesan website for additional information: 11 P a g e

12 Diocese of Lansing 3.4 Assessment of Formal Education Requirements Catholic theological formation is the standard by which all intellectual formation is judged. With few exceptions, the religious studies or theological course work should be provided by a Catholic institution. The Diocese of Lansing in partnership with Siena Heights University provides a 36 credit hour undergraduate certificate in Religious Studies. 12 The coursework was designed specifically to meet the academic needs of lay ecclesial ministers and diocesan deacon candidates. The diocese encourages graduate course work be completed at one of several institutes that are recognized for their outstanding distance learning programs. 13 Transcripts showing completed coursework should be submitted as part of the Certification candidates file. 14 Establishing equivalency to meet academic requirements is a way to grant/obtain academic credit for course work not specifically listed in the diocesan requirements for ministry formation. A request for equivalency is processed as follows: Applicant requests an Equivalency Review by the Director of the Office in the area of the minister s specialization (Appendix 11.0 G) Applicant submits a transcript of coursework for which they are requiring equivalency Applicant provides a syllabus or prepares a written narrative that demonstrates how their experience/competence correlates to a particular requirement The Office Director, possibly in conjunction with other Office Directors, makes the decision to accept or deny the request A written report is added to the applicant's Certification File The applicant is notified within thirty days of the original request as to acceptance or denial of the equivalency 3.5 Employment in Ministry Applicants are asked to submit a resume or Curriculum Vitae showing their work experience. A minimum of three full years (min. 30 hrs/week) or six part-time years (min. 15 hrs/week) experience in a leadership role within the specialized ministry area with one full year or two part-time years served within the Diocese of Lansing is required for certification. Additional verification of employment may be requested at the discretion of the Director of the Office of Lay Ministry. 3.6 Adherence to a Code of Ethics Applicants will be required to sign a code of ethics available in Appendix 11.0 J. 3.7 Participation in Required Diocesan Workshops It is highly recommended that lay women and men interested in Ministry Certification attend a diocesan workshop directed towards answering questions about the process. The diocese will also offer a workshop intended to help participants develop a portfolio. 12 Course descriptions provided in Appendix 11.0 L. 13 Additional information about the diocesan academic programs is available in the Ministry Formation Program bulletin. 14 Please have transcripts sent to Diocese of Lansing, Director of Lay Ministry, 228 n. Walnut, Lansing, MI P a g e

13 Certification Manual While these workshops are not currently required certification candidates are strongly urged to attend them. 3.8 Participation in Professional Organization(s) All lay leaders are encouraged to participate in the appropriate national organization that supports their particular specialized ministry area. For example, there is the National Association of Lay Ministry (NALM), National Conference for Catechetical Leadership (NCCL), National Association of Catholic Youth Ministry (NACYML), National Association of Pastoral Musicians (NPM), Federation of Diocesan Liturgical Commissions (FDLC) Participation in Ministerial Support Group Many regions within the Diocese of Lansing have on-going prayer support groups available to lay ecclesial ministers. While participation in one of these groups is not mandatory, it is highly recommended that lay ministers serving in ministry seek the on-going support of fellow lay leaders. Praying together as well as sharing blessings and challenges in ministerial service helps to foster balanced and positive service Criteria for Safe Environment The Diocese of Lansing has promulgated a Code of Pastoral Conduct for priests, deacons, pastoral coordinators, pastoral ministers, administrators, staff, and volunteers who have regular contact with minors. Each parish is required to designate a Staff Member who maintains parish records to document that designated personnel (listed above) have Signed a Code of Pastoral Conduct Undergone a Criminal Background Check Completed VIRTUS 16 Training Section 4.0 Certification Standards Certification standards give evidence of a profession s focus and activities and the values to which it is committed; designate the knowledge, skills, and attitudes it deems desirable or necessary for effective functioning as a practitioner of the profession; and may be used as educational criteria in a process of formation and assessment criteria in a process of certification. 17 The Diocese of Lansing uses the certification standards established by the Alliance for the Certification of Lay Ecclesial Ministers (ACLEM). These standards were approved by the USCCB/CCA October 2011 for a period of seven years. A brief description of each standard is provided here NALM ( NCCL ( NACYML ( NPM ( FDLC ( 16 For more information contact the Safe Environment Coordinator All material provided in Section 4 has been taken from National Certification Standards for Lay Ecclesial Ministers, November P a g e

14 Diocese of Lansing 4.1 Standard One: Human Lay ecclesial ministers demonstrate the qualities of human maturity needed for fruitful ministry with the people of God. Vision Statement Lay ecclesial ministers, as all ecclesial ministers, develop their human character and relational abilities so that they can be a bridge and not an obstacle for people in their encounter with Jesus Christ. This development entails the twofold dynamic of strengthening positive traits that foster ministerial effectiveness and lessening negative traits that hinder it. Accordingly, lay ecclesial ministers strive to deepen their knowledge of self and others, grow from experiences of suffering and challenge, maintain a balanced lifestyle and positive relationships, appreciate and value diversity, and demonstrate basic human virtues. Cultivating such traits and skills within a Christ-centered community contributes to the development of a healthy and wellbalanced personality, for the sake of both personal growth and ministerial service (Co-Workers, p. 36). 4.2 Standard Two: Spiritual Sharing in the common priesthood of all the baptized, a lay ecclesial minister demonstrates Christian spirituality as foundational to ministry, integrated in service with the people of God, and possessing a sacramental view of the world that recognizes the world can be a vessel of God s presence and God s transforming grace. Vision Statement Having encountered the person and message of Jesus Christ, the hunger of the lay ecclesial minister for union with the Triune God is constant. The result of this hunger is the call to holiness, built on the Word of God, experienced in the liturgy and sacraments, formed through suffering, nurtured in joy, and sustained in community with all the baptized and through the Church as Mystical Body. The minister gives witness to a well-formed spirituality through a rich and diversified prayer life, theological reflection, and action rooted in Catholic social teaching. Spiritual formation is grounded in the understanding that if ministry does not flow from a personal encounter and ongoing relationship with the Lord, then no matter how accomplished it may be in its methods and activities, that ministry will lack the vital soul and source needed to bear lasting fruit (Co-Workers, p.73) 4.3 Standard Three: Intellectual A lay ecclesial minister demonstrates understanding of the breadth of Catholic theological and pastoral studies as well as the intellectual skill to use that knowledge in ministry with God s people from diverse populations and cultures. Vision Statement Formation for lay ecclesial ministry is a journey beyond catechesis into theological study (Co-Workers, p. 43) A lay ecclesial minister s faith and ministry is formed by the study of the Catholic theological tradition focusing on the following core elements: Scripture and its interpretation, dogmatic theology, Church history, liturgical and sacramental theology, moral theology and Catholic social teaching, pastoral theology, spirituality, canon law, ecumenism and interreligious dialogue, the social sciences, humanities, and culture and language studies. Based upon this study, a theologically 14 P a g e

15 Certification Manual competent minister can articulate and interpret this Catholic theological tradition with disciples from diverse communities. A key dynamic of effective lay ecclesial ministry is the integration into ministry practices of the key documents and principal theories of pastoral ministry. 4.4 Standard Four: Pastoral A lay ecclesial minister demonstrates a range of leadership and pastoral skills needed for functioning effectively in ministry. Vision Statement As a response to their baptismal call, lay ecclesial ministers accept the grace of leadership and manifest a range of skills and pastoral gifts which allow them to function effectively in ministry. In their role as evangelizers, they operate in a parochial setting which has various dimensions faith formation, worship, cultural diversity, community life, social justice, and apostolic service. They are effective listeners who foster respect and offer compassionate care within varied family, community, and cultural settings. In the spirit of the Gospel, they serve others as companions on the journey of faith. These ministers demonstrate good stewardship, work collaboratively with other lay and ordained ministers, and exhibit human resource and management skills. They have an ability to discern and nurture the gifts of all the baptized in order to build the Kingdom of God. Lastly, these ministers embrace a professional code of ethics worthy of Catholic ministry and abide by civil and Church law. Pastoral formation cultivates the knowledge, attitudes, and skills that directly pertain to effective functioning in the ministry setting and that also pertain to pastoral administration that supports direct ministry (Co-Workers, page 47). Section 5.0 Process for Initial Certification The USCCB/CCA has approved a three-tiered Combined Ministry Certification process for the Diocese of Lansing. The applicant for certification will meet the eligibility and formation requirements for one level (basic, intermediate, or advanced). The applicant will also indicate which specialized ministry areas are to be included in their application. Section three (3) contains detailed descriptions of the three levels of certification. Here is an overview of the process for Initial Certification (Level III): 1. Submit an application to the Office of Lay Ministry (OLM) (Section 5.1). a. OLM opens a certification file for the applicant. b. Complete an application file by submitting all the necessary paperwork by the appropriate deadline (December, August) (Section 5.2). 2. Application file is reviewed by the OLM. a. Applicant has a formal review by one of four Diocesan Directors. For example, all those applying for certification in the area of Youth Ministry meet with the Director of Youth Ministry, all those applying for certification in the area of Pastoral Associate meet with the Director of Lay Ministry. b. The Diocesan Director determines that an applicant meets the Level III requirements in the area of the applicant s/office s ministry specialization. 15 P a g e

16 Diocese of Lansing c. Level III Certification requests are considered throughout the year; a report of those candidates receiving level III certification are presented at one of the bi-annual Combined Ministries Certification Review Board (CMCRB) meetings 3. The Diocesan Director submits a report to the full CMCRB at the next bi-annual meeting (March, November). 4. The CMCRB arrives at a consensus with regard to certification. They can decide to approve the certification, deny the certification or approve with stipulations. (Section 5.5) 5. Applicant is notified of CMCRB decision within 30 days. Applicant will receive a letter of commendation and certificate (Section 5.5, 5.9). a. Request for an appeal of a negative decision may be made to the OLM within 30 days of receipt of the letter of notification (Section 5.5, 9.0). Here is an overview of the process for Initial Certification (Level IV and Level V): 1. Submit an application to the Office of Lay Ministry (OLM) (Section 5.1). a. OLM opens a certification file for the applicant. b. Complete an application file by submitting all the necessary paperwork by the appropriate deadline (December, August) (Section 5.2). 2. Application file is reviewed by the OLM to determine if the file is complete. 3. Applicant who has a complete application file is scheduled for an interview with an Interview committee. a. Applicant meets with an interview team of at least three people (Section 5.4). b. Interview committee makes a written recommendation to the Office of Lay Ministry (Section 5.4). c. The interview committee submits their report to the full Combined Ministries Certification Review Board (CMCRB) at the next bi-annual meeting (March, November). 4. The CMCRB arrives at a consensus with regard to certification. They can decide to approve the certification, deny the certification or approve with stipulations. (Section 5.5) 5. Applicant is notified of CMCRB decision within 30 days. Applicant will receive a letter of commendation and certificate (Section 5.5, 5.9). a. Request for an appeal of a negative decision may be made to the OLM within 30 days of receipt of the letter of notification (Section 5.5, 9.0). 5.1 Requesting and Completing an Application Form Use the application form in Appendix 11.0 A to begin the lay ministry certification process. This form should be sent to the Director of Lay Ministry as soon as a candidate decides to seek certification. This will open a file with the Office of Lay Ministry. All requests for certification accompanied by a completed ministry portfolio are presented to the Combined Ministries Certification Review Board (CMCRB) for approval. The CMCRB meets twice per year (Spring, Fall) at which time those 16 P a g e

17 Certification Manual candidates who have completed their certification file and who have been interviewed will be considered for certification. A completed certification file includes all materials necessary for eligibility to be established (Section 3) as well as all certification materials (Section 5). The Office of Lay Ministry maintains certification files and can answer any questions regarding what materials are present or missing. Below is a brief overview of the certification timeline: Certification Timeline Spring Round December Applicants with completed Certification Files by end of the month will be considered for certification at the spring meeting (incomplete applications are held until next round unless the applicant withdraws from the certification process) February Office of Lay Ministry schedules Interviews with an Interview Committee March Combined Ministries Certification Review Board reviews Interview Committee recommendations April Office of Lay Ministry notifies applicant of the CMCRB decision in writing with explanation Fall Round August Applicants with completed Certification Files by end of the month will be considered for certification at the spring meeting (incomplete applications are held until next round unless the applicant withdraws from the certification process) October - Office of Lay Ministry schedules Interviews with an Interview Committee November - Combined Ministries Certification Review Board reviews Interview Committee recommendations December Office of Lay Ministry notifies applicant of the CMCRB decision in writing with explanation The certification process is different for Basic (III) level Certification than for Intermediate (IV) and Advanced (V) as described in Section 5.0 above. 5.2 Meeting Eligibility Requirements 1. General Requirements Ministry leaders are eligible for Ministry Certification when they meet the following requirements: The minister is a fully initiated or received, practicing Catholic, in good standing 19 The minister has a minimum of three years of full time experience (minimum 30 hrs. /week) or six years of part-time (min. 15 hrs. /week), serving as a program leader in a specialized area of ministry. 20 At least one full year or two parttimes years of employment must be within the Diocese of Lansing. 19 Diocese of Lansing Policy Manual: Section Competency & Eligibility for Lay Ecclesial Ministry 20 Pastoral Associate, Pastoral Minister, Catechetical Leader, Leader of Youth Ministry, Director of Worship, Liturgical Musician 17 P a g e

18 Diocese of Lansing Participation in the diocesan Ministry Formation Program is required. 21 The minister has completed at least 18 academic credit hours in the diocesan sponsored academic theology program (or an equivalent program as specified by the Office of Lay Ministry) The minister has a Pastor s endorsement/authorization to serve as a public minister. A recommendation/observation form is required (Appendix 11.0 C). 2. Safe Environment Requirements The Diocese of Lansing has promulgated a Code of Pastoral Conduct for priests, deacons, pastoral coordinators, pastoral ministers, administrators, staff, and volunteers who have regular contact with minors. Each parish is required to designate a Staff Member who maintains parish records to document that designated personnel (listed above) have: Signed a Code of Pastoral Conduct Undergone a Criminal Background Check Completed VIRTUS Training Applicants for Ministry Certification must meet all Safe Environment Requirements. 5.3 Participating in a Mentoring Process We do not currently require that an applicant participate in a mentoring process. 5.4 Meeting with Interviewers Once it is determined that the certification file is complete an interview with a three to five member interview team will be scheduled. The number of specialized ministry areas that are being certified determines the number of interviewers. For example, if the applicant is requesting certification in Youth Ministry Leadership and Catechetical Leader then the interview team will consist of four interviewers. The interview team will never be less than three team members. The interview team will review the applicant s certification file in advance of the interview. The interview will last 30 minutes and will focus on the four pillars of formation. The interview team seeks through the interview to determine if the applicant is a well-balanced, well-formed lay ecclesial minister who has represented that they are competent in a specialized area of ministry. At the conclusion of the interview, the interview team will compose a summary report of the interview. They will arrive at a consensus regarding whether to grant Certification, deny Certification or recommend Certification with stipulations. An explanation will be given for any decision as well as a list of commendations to be shared with the applicant. 5.5 Consideration by the Combined Ministries Certification Review Board Board Review & Vote 21 See diocesan website for additional information: pdf. 18 P a g e

19 Certification Manual The CMCRB Meets twice a year, once in the spring and again in the fall (Meetings are scheduled by the Director of Lay Ministry) The primary purpose of the biannual meeting is to make a final decision about granting certification to any applicants that have been reviewed and/or interviewed by an Interview Committee Interview Committees present a summary of the interviews they conducted and their final reports. They indicate their decision for or against certification CMCRB members may review some of the candidate s portfolio material. Discussion and clarification may take place. The CMCRB must arrive at a decision to accept the recommendation of the Interview Committee Decisions are made by consensus, which means that all members of the board agree with approval or can accept approval of an applicant for certification Notification The Director of Lay Ministry notifies each applicant of the CMCRB decision regarding their applications, within 30 days of the biannual meeting Applicants receive a certificate noting the area of specialization; level of certification and notation of certificate expiration. 22 A letter accompanying the certificate includes commendations as suggested by the Interview Committee - noted by the CMCRB and an affirmation of areas for growth the applicant identified on the self assessment. Copies are sent to the applicant s pastor/supervisor. Applicants who are not certified are given specific reasons according to specified diocesan standards and if possible, presented an action plan the applicant could follow to acquire qualifications for certification. 5.6 Submitting a Portfolio The applicant s certification file is essentially a portfolio and must be completed at least two months prior to the biannual meeting of the Combined Ministries Certification Review Board. The preferred method of submission is electronic however paper copies will be accepted as well. All documentation should be submitted to the Department of Formation secretary assigned to receive certification files Electronic Files Naming conventions for all files and documents submitted electronically must be followed. Here is the format: LastnameCertificationPortfolioelement. Examples: - My Resume: AmatoCertificationResume - My Integration Paper: AmatoCertificationIntegrationPaper Documents can be submitted in Microsoft Word, Adobe PDF or Jpeg format Paper Copies If you choose to submit your portfolio in paper form, it must be in a three ring binder and three parts as described in Appendix 11.0 I. Part two will contain five sections. Part one and part three each contain one section. Part one contains the initial application, a checklist and a cover letter formally requesting certification. Part two 22 See Appendix 11.0 M for a sample certificate. 19 P a g e

20 Diocese of Lansing contains documentation relevant to evidence of competency. Part three contains an integration paper demonstrating your ability to integrate your formation into your actual ministerial role. The Director of Lay Ministry or a Formation Department staff member will keep candidates informed of the status of their certification files as new information arrives. Appendix 11.0 I contains a checklist and format for the portfolio. 5.7 Conducting a Ministry Practicum N/A This will need to be added for Director of Worship and Director of Music Ministries. 5.8 Participating in an Interview Process Each Interview Team is composed of three members of the CMCRB including the Office Director - or designee - representing the applicant s area of specialization. Members of each applicant s Interview Team are selected according to common ministry background, as much as possible. Team members receive preparatory material from the OLM, including copies of the applicants portfolio Team members serve in one of three roles: o Facilitator, who leads the interview with the applicant o Reporter, who records everyone s observations & writes the team summary report o Timekeeper, who keeps the interview process on track regarding time Following a 30 minute interview team members formulate a recommendation to be presented to the full Board (CMCRB). 5.9 Assessing the Documents and Competencies of Candidates Application and eligibility for certification will be determined by Director of Lay Ministry or in the case of Level III (Basic) certification by the Office Director of the particular area of specialization. Office of Lay Ministry staff will determine when an applicant s file is complete and can be given to the Interview Committee. All questions relating to completion of formation requirements and equivalencies will be decided by the Office of Lay Ministry who may consult with other Diocesan Directors as necessary. Names, pictures and a brief letter of introduction of all candidates for initial and renewal of certification will be submitted to the local ordinary for review prior to final approval and after the candidate has been interviewed and recommended by the Certification Review Board Celebrating the Conferral of Initial Certification Initial certification is announced in the diocesan newspaper (Catholic Times) and monthly magazine (FAITH). A letter of commendation is sent to the candidates Pastor or direct supervisor. 20 P a g e

21 Certification Manual Section 6.0 Process for Renewal of Certification 6.1 Notifying Candidates The OLM will notify those who should consider renewal one year prior to the expiration of their certification. This notification will be sent by US mail. The letter will include the date that certification expires as well as a list of the requirements for certification renewal. The candidate for renewal will be told that their Pastor will also be informed that their certification is up for renewal. 6.2 Applying for Renewal Requests for Renewal of Certification are submitted to the Director of the Office of Lay Ecclesial Ministry. An Application for Renewal Form may be found online as well as in Appendix 11.0 B. All lay ecclesial ministers seeking renewal must meet eligibility requirements, submit an assessment, and show commitment to on-going leadership and formation. Those who due to hardship are not able to meet the ten hours of enrichment each year may be given pastoral consideration although some progress in this area should be apparent. 6.3 Fulfilling Ongoing Requirements for Renewing Certification A complete application includes: Any official transcripts from studies completed since initial certification Provide a recent (within the previous 12 months) letter of recommendation from a peer and a supervisor. o A Supervisor s recommendation is preferred; however, an alternative means of recommendation can be used upon the approval of the diocesan office director for the area of certification sought. o Annual appraisal from the most recent year could be used in special circumstances (ie, the pastor has been reassigned or is not available). Evidence of on-going spiritual formation Provide a self-assessment which includes an evaluation of the goals established for the previous five years and plans for growth over the next five years. Demonstrate commitment to leadership outside of the parish through Diocesan, Regional or Vicariate committee work. Some examples are: o Curriculum writing, advisory board, jamboree, etc o Teaching catechist formation sessions o Mentoring a PTS student Ten (10) hours of enrichment is required per ministry certification area (Youth, Catechetical, or Pastoral) per year, but need not exceed a total of 20 hours per year. Within your ministry area enrichment should cover intellectual, spiritual, pastoral, and human aspects of your ministry. Enrichment could be through conferences, workshops, webinars, online programs, etc. Some local suggestions for enrichment include regional meetings, catechetical days, lay ministry convocation, legal issues days, regional, diocesan or national organization conferences, etc. Equivalency may 21 P a g e

22 Diocese of Lansing be awarded with approval of the Certification Review Board. All lay ecclesial ministers seeking renewal must meet eligibility requirement, submit an assessment, and show commitment to on-going leadership. Those who due to hardship are not able to meet the ten hours of enrichment each year may be given pastoral consideration although some progress in this area should be apparent. 6.4 Meeting with Interviewers/Peers Who Have Been Certified We do not require an interview for renewal at this time. 6.5 Consideration by the Certification Committee/Commission/Board Applications for renewal reviewed by the Diocesan director for the area of ministry specialization and then brought before the CMCRB at the next bi-annual meeting. Applicant will be notified of the CMCRB decision within 30 days of the CMCRB meeting. Appeals of negative decisions follow the same procedure as the initial certification process (See Section 5.5, 9.0) 6.6 Assessing Requirements and Competencies See Section Recommending Candidates for Renewal of Certification Names, pictures and a brief letter of introduction of all candidates for initial and renewal of certification will be submitted to the local ordinary for review prior to final approval and after the candidate has been interviewed and recommended by the Certification Review Board. (Duplicate in Section 5.9B) 6.8 Celebrating the Conferral of Renewal of Certification See Section 5.10 Section 7.0 Roles of Those Involved in the Assessment Process 7.1 The Combined Ministries Certification Review Board The Combined Ministries Certification Review Board (CMCRB) meets bi-annually to: Review and vote on recommendations for initial certification and renewal of certification requests Review and vote on appeals of negative decisions Review and evaluate policy and procedure developed by the Certification Committee - the four Directors of the Collaborating Offices & the Formation Department Chair 7.2 The Standards Committee The Directors of the four collaborating offices, together with the Chair of the Department of Formation, serve on the Certification Standards and Procedures Committee, to develop, monitor and revise procedures and periodically evaluate the certification standards. 22 P a g e